Pune, 25 December 2025: The NCC Directorate Maharashtra’s Pune–Delhi Cycle Expedition, titled ‘Shaurya ke Kadam, Kranti ki Ore’, was flagged off from the historic Shaniwar Wada on Wednesday. The rally marks the start of a 1,680-kilometre journey aimed at promoting national unity, discipline, fitness and pride among youth.
The expedition is part of a nationwide NCC initiative and will culminate in Delhi on January 27, 2026, where it will be flagged in by Narendra Modi.
The expedition draws inspiration from legendary Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao I, who led a historic military campaign from Pune to Delhi. Following a similar route through Malwa and Bundelkhand, NCC cadets will cycle across five states.
Along the way, they will interact with local youth and communities to spread awareness about national unity, physical fitness, road safety and civic responsibility, reinforcing India’s unity in diversity.
The cycle team is led by Brigadier Sachin Gawali, Group Commander, NCC Group Headquarters Amravati. It includes 12 NCC cadets, six of them women, supported by trained staff. The cadets were selected through a rigorous process and underwent three months of intensive training to prepare for the physically demanding expedition.
Ahead of the flag-off, cadets carried out social service activities in Sinnar, the birthplace of Bajirao I, and in Pune. These included blood donation drives, tree plantation and shramdan, reflecting the NCC’s focus on community service and environmental awareness.
The cadets also attended the Shaniwar Wada light and sound show and sought blessings at Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, drawing cultural and spiritual motivation.
Major General Vivek Tyagi, Additional Director General, NCC Directorate Maharashtra, congratulated the cadets and wished them a safe and successful journey, praising their discipline and commitment.
Bollywood actor Vivaan Shah, who was present at the event, applauded the cadets’ determination and urged citizens to support the young ambassadors carrying forward the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
The flag-off ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from NCC cadets, youth and citizens, who cheered as the team embarked on its long journey from Pune to the national capital.
