Agartala: Dec 02: On December 2, 2024, Lieutenant General AS Pendharkar, YSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Spear Corps, flagged off the “Pedalling Patriots-II” cycling expedition from Dimapur, Nagaland, to Agartala, Tripura, to commemorate 53 years of India’s victory in the 1971 war. The expedition, covering over 500 kilometers in 12 days, will traverse challenging road conditions, aiming to honor the valor of India’s Armed Forces, who not only led the nation to victory but also played a crucial role in the creation of Bangladesh.
At the flag-off ceremony, several Ex-Servicemen (ESM) were felicitated, including four Poorvi Star veterans and a Gallantry Award winner. Additionally, 16 needy ESMs received medical aid. The event was attended by Indian Army officials, ESMs, Veer Naris, school students, and NCC cadets.
The expedition, named “Pedalling Patriots-II,” consists of 15 members who will journey through Lumding, Haflong, Masimpur, and other towns, interacting with ESMs, Veer Naris, and widows of veterans. The Spear Corps coordinated with Zila Sainik Boards in the three states to assist ESMs with medical equipment like wheelchairs, hearing aids, and walking sticks.
The expedition also aims to engage with school children across nine schools in the three states, organizing painting and elocution competitions, and interacting with students to inspire them about the Indian Army’s glory. Additionally, sports equipment will be provided to orphanages.
The “Pedalling Patriots-II” expedition will conclude on December 16, 2024, Vijay Diwas, at the L/Nk Albert Ekka War Memorial in Agartala, marking the day with a tribute to the sacrifices of India’s Armed Forces.
