Territorial Army commemorates platinum jubilee with cycle expedition from Siachen to Indira Point

By Reach Ladakh Correspondent Leh, Aug 06, 2024
Leh :

In commemoration of the Platinum Jubilee Year of the Territorial Army, a cycle expedition was organized from Siachen Base Camp to Indira Point, starting on August 3.

The expedition is planned to be conducted in two legs—Mainland Leg and Island Leg—traversing approximately 5,500 kilometers through land, air, and sea.

The expedition, comprising 21 Territorial Army personnel, was flagged off from Siachen Base Camp on July 30, 2024, and reached Leh on August 2, 2024.

On August 4, 2024, the General Officer Commanding, 72 Sub Area, interacted with the team members. The expedition will cycle through the entire length of the nation, reaching Chennai, where the team will then move to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. After traveling southwards through the Nicobar Islands, the expedition will conclude at Indira Point, where the Tricolour will be hoisted underwater at the southernmost tip of India.

In addition to cycling, the expedition team will engage in sailing and scuba diving activities as part of their journey. Public awareness campaigns addressing issues such as national integration, environmental consciousness, and "Know Your Army" will also be conducted along the route. The primary aim of the expedition is to foster a civil-military connection, with the Territorial Army having a widespread presence across the country.

The Territorial Army (TA) was established in 1949 following the enactment of the Territorial Army Act in 1948. Derived from the concept of a Citizen Army, the TA's role has evolved and expanded, now being integral to all spheres of the Indian Army. The TA has actively participated in all major operations undertaken by the Indian Army, earning numerous gallantry and distinguished awards. The TA has also played a significant role in nation-building, environmental management, and ecological restoration. The Ecological Units of the TA have planted approximately 9 crore saplings across 92,000 hectares of land nationwide to address the adverse effects of global warming.