Tawang, Apr 23: A group of 40 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from the northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland and Meghalaya was flagged off on Tuesday from the iconic Buddha Statue in Tawang for a 10-day Vibrant Village Camp at Jemeithang near the India-Tibet border.
Organised for the first time in this remote and culturally significant region, the camp aims to instil a spirit of nationalism, foster cultural exchange, and promote awareness of India’s border areas among the youth.
Tawang MLA Namgey Tsering flagged off the contingent, which includes 20 boys and 20 girls, in the presence of Tawang deputy commissioner Kanki Darang, Tawang Brigade commander Brigadier Bhupal Singh and 2nd Battalion NCC commanding officer Colonel Abhijeet Bambre.
Senior Indian Army officers, civil administration officials, and members of the public also attended the ceremony.
Recalling his own days as an NCC cadet, Tsering urged the youth to explore the unique Monpa culture and the scenic landscape of Jemeithang. He encouraged them to consider a career in the armed forces and described the initiative as a crucial step in strengthening patriotic spirit and national integration.
Brigadier Singh underlined the historical significance of Jemeithang, noting it was the route taken by the 14th Dalai Lama during his escape to India in 1959. He also highlighted the contributions of Monpa King Kalawangpo and the region’s deep-rooted ties to India’s border legacy.
Earlier, cadets and dignitaries observed a minute of silence to honour the civilians killed in the Pahalgam terror attack on Monday.
The flag-off concluded with the cadets chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, setting off on their journey with a sense of pride, unity, and commitment to the nation.