Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s largest automobile manufacturer, in association with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) to set out on a momentous 21-day rally spanning over 3,500 kilometres across Northeastern India. This association is focused on encouraging youth to join National Cadet Corps and fostering cultural exchange throughout the Northeast region. Commencing from Shillong, this journey is set to culminate on November 26, 2023, in Guwahati, celebrating 75 years of NCC.
The ceremonial flag-off for this rally was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, accompanied by senior management from Maruti Suzuki, the Director General of NCC, and the Director General Assam Rifles from GOC 101 Area.
A team of 18 dedicated NCC officers and 76 cadets will steer the course, navigating over 3,500 kilometers, driving 7 Maruti Suzuki Jimnys and 5 flagship Grand Vitara SUVs. The rally will traverse several Northeastern states, including Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and will conclude on November 26th, 2023, in Guwahati.
Speaking on the momentous association with NCC, Mr. Shashank Srivastava, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, “Maruti Suzuki is honoured to associate with the NCC for this rally. As this journey unfolds with the SUV companions from Maruti Suzuki – Jimny and Grand Vitara, I would like to wish everyone who is a part of this journey the best. I am certain that our SUVs, designed to take on treacherous tracks with ease and finesse, will turn this expedition into an exhilarating experience.”
Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Major General Gagan Deep, ADG, NER DTE, NCC, said, “This car rally aims for a sense of camaraderie, leadership, sportsmanship, adventure and imbibing the spirit of patriotism among the youth, inspiring them to uphold the values that the National Cadet Corps stands for.”
Throughout the journey, the convoy will pause along the route engaging with students from 277 schools, 151 colleges situated in 44 districts, attending different cultural events. Along the way, NCC cadets will also engage directly with local youth, immersing themselves in the wealth of social heritage, promoting the importance of cultural exchange amongst different people from diverse regions.
