“Purvotar Bharat Parikrama”, a trans-Eastern Command car rally was flagged off by the Army Commander Eastern Command, Lt General RP Kalita today on the eve of Shaheed Diwas to pay tribute to the martyrs.
It was on March 22, 1931 when three brave freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev sacrificed their lives for India’s independence.
The rally will cover a total distance of approximately 4000 Kms across the states of Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya in North-East India, navigating through extreme terrain to include Nathu-la in Sikkim, Se-la tunnel and Bum-la in Arunachal Pradesh, the War memorial at Kohima and many historical locations.
The event is part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to strengthen nationalism and motivate youth to join the Indian Army. The initiative will serve as a unique platform to showcase the cultural diversity of the Northeastern region, encourage tourism and strengthen the bond between the people of the Northeastern states and the rest of the country, a defence press release here said.
A series of motivational programs have been planned at various schools and colleges by gallantry award winners and Param Veer Chakra recipients during the rally.
Conducted by the Tezpur based Gajraj Corps the rally will culminate on April 12 at Umroi here. The national project of “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” is being conducted in collaboration with the North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Department of North Eastern Region (DoNER).