Pune, Maharashtra – The ‘Khamree Mo Sikkim’ (Hello Sikkim) Car Rally, a remarkable 22-day journey covering a distance of 6500 km, was flagged in by Cmde Mohit Goel, Commanding Officer of INS Shivaji, Lonavala, on October 15, 2023. This thrilling expedition began its journey on September 24, 2023, departing from INS Shivaji.
Exploring the Maratha Empire Leg
The car rally, divided into three distinct legs, began with the ‘Maratha Empire Leg.’ During this stage, the team made stops at various schools and colleges, fostering interactions with over 15,000 students. Schools such as Navodaya Vidyalaya in Mhow, Jai Academy in Jhansi, Lucknow Public School (LPS), Sainik School Amethi, and Army Public School in Varanasi were visited, and several veterans were felicitated. The rally team also visited significant military institutions like the Infantry School in Mhow, Army Central Command in Lucknow, and the 17 Gurkha Training Centre in Varanasi, actively interacting with military personnel and educating them about recent developments in the Indian Navy.
The Majestic Himalayan Leg
The rally’s second leg, known as the ‘Himalayan Leg,’ took participants into the breathtaking landscapes of Sikkim. This leg kicked off in Bagdogra with a cleanliness drive at Mahanadi River as part of the Swachhata Abhiyan on October 2, 2023. The team also engaged with students at Modi Public School and Army Public School in Bagdogra, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, and Paljor Namgyal Girls’ School in Gangtok. Notably, they had the privilege of meeting the Honorable Governor of Sikkim, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, during this leg, adding an extraordinary dimension to their journey.
Inspiring the East Coast Leg
The final leg of the ‘Khamree Mo Sikkim’ Car Rally, known as the ‘East Coast Leg,’ encompassed outreach programs at Indian Maritime University (IMU) Kolkata and KIIT Bhubaneshwar, along with visits to border villages. The rally team further interacted with naval veterans in Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Pune, sharing their experiences and insights. Continuing their vision for national leadership in developing remote areas, this rally served as a powerful tool of inspiration for the youth in Sikkim and across other states.
The expedition was made possible through the partnership of M/s Maruti Suzuki India Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd as the fuel partner, ensuring a smooth and successful journey for all participants.
In summary, the ‘Khamree Mo Sikkim’ Car Rally is not only a testament to the spirit of adventure but also an avenue for fostering educational outreach and strengthening connections between regions of India. This journey symbolizes the vibrant cultural diversity and unity that is at the heart of our great nation.
