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IMA cadets on a multi-safari expedition
by Ashish Goel

          Dehradun: On the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Indian Military Academy, the cadets are undertaking a multi-safari expedition. It would cover four different adventure disciplines. The 3,500 km expedition was flagged off here on Wednesday (Sep.12) by Lieutenant General P. K. Rampal, Commandant of the IMA. The expedition will prepare the cadets for future assignments. The participants will inform village youngsters on their way about the adventurous lifestyle that the Army can offer. "The Army offers a career which combines action with pleasure. On the completion of their training, the cadets have to serve in areas which are different from one another. They may be located in high mountains, thick forests or dry deserts." By sending the cadets to such areas, we want them to have an idea of the areas in which they have to service. At the same time, it will give an idea to the people of the areas about life in the Army", said Lieutenant General Rampal.

          The multi-safari expedition, in the western sector covering Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab includes a long drives in Gypsy, travelling across the desert on camels, and the countryside astride horses and cross-country cycling. The drive by Gypsy will be around 2,700 kilometres while astride camels and horses they would cover 210 and 125 kilometres respectively and cycle a distance of 425 kilometres Lt. Gen. A. K. Chauhan Chauhan will guide the cadets during the expedition. He says: "We will be covering nearly 2,700 kilometers. Everyone is full of excitement. We would be meeting villagers and motivate more and more youth to join the Indian army," said Lieutenant General A. K. Chauhan, Leader of the Expedition. Major Ranjeet Singh, one of the participants, said, "Army career and adventure are inter-related. We give the cadets training to enable them take calculated risks that helps in decision-making. After commissioning they would go in their units and work as leaders." The expedition will conclude at Dehradun on September 23rd (Sunday).
- September 15,  2007