Army cycle expedition
The Dao Army Cycle Expedition team returning to Tezu of Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday. Image - Northeast Now

The Dao Army Cycle Expedition team returned to Tezu of Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday after successful completion of the expedition.

The team covered a gruelling 452 km on rugged and mountainous terrain.

The ten-member team received overwhelming response from the local population along the route from Tezu to Salangam, Hayuliang, Changwinti, Walong and Kibithu, stated a defence press communique on Tuesday.

The Army cycle expedition team interacted with locals living in the far-flung areas of Lohit Valley to inculcate the spirit of adventure and also motivated them to join the Indian Army.

They also motivated girls to join the forces and explained to them about various women entry schemes that are currently available.

Pamphlets on various schemes were also distributed.

The Army team guided the youth about the educational, physical and other criteria required to join the forces.

En route, the Army cycle expedition team visited the War Memorial located at Walong and paid homage to the martyrs, the defence press communique added.

Meanwhile, Indian Army’s elite Gajraj Corps celebrated the Army Day at Tezpur in Assam on Tuesday.

This day is celebrated as a mark of respect to salute the valiant soldiers who had laid down their lives to protect the country.

In a solemn but impressive ceremony held at the Tezpur War Memorial, the Gajraj Corps Commander, Lt Gen Manoj Pande, laid the wreath.

He complimented all ranks for their dedication and devotion beyond the call of duty while serving in counter insurgency areas of Assam as well as in the inclement weather and remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh, besides aiding civil population in the hours of need.

It may be recalled that it was on January 15 in 1948 that Lieutenant General KM Cariappa took over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander.

Thus, this day is celebrated to recognise this proud moment, when an Indian assumed command of the Indian Army. A large number of officers, JCOs and Jawans of Tezpur Garrison participated in the event and paid homage to the martyrs, stated another defence press communique.