Telangana NCC Cadets Participate in Kerala’s All-Girl Trek Expedition

 Hyderabad: A contingent of NCC cadets from Telangana recently participated in the 14th edition of the All India Trekking Expedition, Kerala Trek-I, held at Kulamavu in the Idukki district of Kerala. This year's event marked a milestone as it was the first time the Kerala Trek-I was organised exclusively for girl cadets.

Cadets from the senior and junior wings of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry joined their peers from the host Kerala and Lakshadweep Directorate for an eight-day adventure, held from September 10 to 17.

The participants, numbering 504, made their way to the camp amidst a heavy downpour that added to the mystique of the scenic hilly terrain of Idukki. The cadets, on arrival at Ernakulam, were transported to the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, where they were accommodated for the duration of the expedition.

The excitement was palpable as the cadets were greeted with the vibrant atmosphere of pre-Onam festivities en route to their destination, the official note read.

Brigadier G.V.S. Reddy, Group Commander, Kottayam, serving as the trek director, briefed the cadets on the schedule of events, safety protocols, and health and hygiene practices essential for the trekking expedition.

The camp was inaugurated by Brigadier A. Ragesh, Deputy Director General of the Kerala and Lakshadweep Directorate. Despite the persistent rain and the cold, misty weather, the cadets remained undeterred and eagerly prepared for the challenging trekking routes.

Over the course of the camp, the cadets embarked on four pre-designated trekking paths, guided by local forest experts. They explored the diverse flora and fauna of the region, taking in the constantly shifting weather conditions and overcoming challenges such as the ubiquitous presence of leeches. The cadets bonded with one another and exchanging stories of their respective cultures and traditions with the trek serving as a platform for promoting national integration, fostering a spirit of adventure, and honing leadership skills.

The closing ceremony was led by Colonel Prashant Nair, Commanding Officer of the 18 Kerala Battalion. Cadets from various states showcased their regional art forms, celebrating the theme of national integration.