Shillong (Meghalaya), Mar 22 : “Purvotar Bharat Parikrama”, a trans-Eastern Command car rally was flagged off by the Army Commander Eastern Command, Lt Gen RP Kalita on 22nd March on the eve of Shaheed Diwas in remembrance of and as a tribute to the Martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs & principles.
It was on 23rd March 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.
“Purvotar Bharat Parikrama” is part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, the year-long Platinum Jubilee of India’s independence, showcasing the country’s journey and the achievements of her people over the past 75 years. It aims 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 series of motivational programs have been planned at various schools and colleges by gallantry award winners and Param Veer Chakra recipients during the rally. It is being conducted by Tezpur based Gajraj Corps and will culminate on 12th April at Umroi, Meghalaya. 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).
