INDIAN NAVY CAR RALLY TEAM ‘KHAMREE MO SIKKIM’ REACHES GANGTOK
The adventure car rally travelling from Maharashtra interacted with Naval veterans and students in Sikkim
In a significant move towards fostering unity and connectivity with North Eastern State, the Indian Navy’s impressive car rally named ‘Khamree Mo Sikkim’ (Hello Sikkim) from Naval Base INS Shivaji, Lonavala reached Gangtok on 3rd October 23. The primary objective of this rally is threefold. First, it aims to promote the participation of youth from Sikkim in defence services, providing them with a first-hand experience of the dedication and discipline that goes into serving the nation. Second, it seeks to enhance maritime consciousness in the region, educating the population about the importance of the seas and oceans in India’s defence strategy. Lastly, the event is a step towards strengthening nation-building, by bringing the armed forces closer to the people, felicitating naval veterans residing in the region, and showcasing the spirit of ‘Nari Shakti’, or women’s power, via the participation of women officers.
In a heartfelt gesture, the members of the car rally team interacted with the naval veterans in Rangpo, Pakyong district. The naval car rally team, led by Lt Cdr Anand Singh Tomar, was warmly welcomed by the veterans and local authorities. Naval veterans shared their riveting tales of service, offering a glimpse into their experiences at sea and onshore. The interaction provided a unique opportunity for the naval team to connect with the veterans, hear their experiences, and express gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the defence of our country. The navy team took the opportunity to felicitate the veterans for their dedication, bravery, and unwavering commitment to the defense of the nation. Each veteran was presented with a token of appreciation as a symbol of the nation’s gratitude.
In addition, the Indian Navy Car Rally team successfully conducted an outreach program at Sikkim Manipal University (SMU). The event, organised by the Indian Navy, aimed to engage with students, faculty, and staff members at SMU and share insights into the Navy’s roles, opportunities, and advancements. The outreach program witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across various disciplines at Sikkim Manipal University. The team delivered a captivating presentation about the Navy’s rich history, modern capabilities, and its crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
The program featured interactive sessions, allowing students to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of life in the Indian Navy, career prospects, and the selection process. Naval officers were available to provide one-on-one career guidance and counselling to interested students. They discussed various entry options, educational qualifications, and the selection process for joining the Indian Navy. Comprehensive information about recruitment procedures, eligibility criteria, and upcoming Navy recruitment drives was provided.
Cdr(Dr.) GL Sharma, Director Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, a naval veteran himself from INS Shivaji, commended the Indian Navy’s efforts in promoting career awareness and said, “We are grateful to the Indian Navy for organising this outreach program at our university. It has provided our students with valuable insights into the Navy’s vital role in safeguarding our nation and the promising career opportunities it offers.”
In continuation with the pursuance of the vision of national leadership towards developing remote areas, the Indian Navy has embarked on a multidimensional outreach program dedicated to strengthening the connection with the North Eastern states. This program is aimed to enhance greater participation of the youth from Sikkim in the Defence Services, strengthen nation-building, and promote maritime consciousness in the region.