Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 08 December 2023
In honour of its momentous 75 years, the National Defence Academy (NDA) has embarked on expeditions to four corners of India, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history. As part of these celebrations, cadets and staff from the NDA have set off on hikes to the Easternmost and Southernmost points of the country.
The team journeying to Indira Point, the Southernmost tip of India, comprising 10 NDA cadets and 3 instructors, commenced their expedition on December 1st, 2023. Their trek encompassed visits to historically significant landmarks across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Notable stops include Indira Point itself, the cellular jail, Aberdeen Bazaar, PVC memorial, and the Tsunami Memorial.
Simultaneously, another team of 10 NDA cadets and 3 instructors embarked on a trek to Kibithu, the Easternmost point of India, on the same day, with their journey slated to end on December 10th, 2023. Their route encompassed visits to historically relevant sites in the vicinity of Kibithu, including the Walong War Memorial, Wacha Border Meeting Point, and Dichu View Point. Additionally, on December 4th, 2023, the team visited Kibithu village, engaging in meaningful interactions with the local population.
Both teams made a point to visit schools along their routes, engaging with students and fostering motivation among them to consider careers in the Armed Forces. These expeditions also provided NDA cadets with an invaluable opportunity to explore remote corners of India and gain firsthand experience of military conditions in various installations.
Earlier expeditions to the Northernmost and Westernmost corners of India were conducted in June 2023. Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, Commandant of NDA, extended his congratulations to all the participating teams for their endeavours.
These expeditions are not only a tribute to the National Defence Academy’s legacy but also serve to raise awareness about the institution’s significance while spotlighting the critical role played by the Armed Forces in national development and safeguarding borders. Festivities and activities marking the 75th anniversary of the NDA are set to culminate on January 16th, 2024.