 Early Times Report
Jammu, July 14: In a stirring tribute to valour, sacrifice, and undying patriotism, a historic milestone was achieved in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh with the inauguration of the first-of-its-kind Obstacle Training Course at Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government College for Women, Gandhinagar. This momentous occasion marked a red-letter day in the annals of NCC training and educational infrastructure, symbolising the confluence of legacy, leadership, and learning. Under the aegis of NCC Directorate of Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh, 8 J&K Girls Battalion NCC, a vibrant unit comprising of 3520 cadets, has etched its mark in the heart of city by establishing this pioneering Obstacle Training Course, designed to fortify the physical endurance and combat readiness of cadets.
Maj Gen Anupinder Bevli, VSM, Additional Director General, JK&L NCC Directorate, and Ms. Deepti Sambyal, wife of Maj Akash Singh, Shaurya Chakra (Posthumous), together unveiled and dedicated the Obstacle Training Course in the memory of the brave son of the soil. Maj Akash Singh—a radiant scholar, spirited NCC cadet, and brave officer of the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment—was commissioned in 1999 and made the supreme sacrifice in 2009 during Operation Rakshak in the treacherous Mendhar sector. He displayed courage and dedication of the highest order by eliminating terrorists even in his final moments. His story of heroism and supreme sacrifice continues to inspire the youth even today.
While addressing the gathering, Maj Gen Anupinder Bevli, VSM, passionately called upon the cadets to emulate the steel-willed spirit of Maj Akash, urging them to walk the path with honour, diligence, and devotion. His motivational words rekindled the flame of patriotism in all cadets, reminding all that true strength lies not only in the body but in the unbreakable will of the heart. He emphasized that Obstacle Training, a cornerstone of the NCC curriculum, develops resilient mindsets, collaborative instincts, and the courage to rise like a phoenix after every fall.
The inauguration was witnessed by Brig DN Pandey, Group Commander, NCC Group HQ Jammu, the ever-supportive Dr. Geetanjali Andotra, Principal GCW Gandhinagar, Col Muneesh Jasrotia, Commanding Officer, 8 J&K Girls Bn, Col Yash Chhibber, AO 2 J&K Bn, along with a distinguished galaxy of intellectuals, Associate NCC Officers, and spirited NCC cadets. Under the azure skies and watchful eyes of mentors, the spirited SD and SW cadets, brimming with youthful zeal and discipline, displayed their skills on the OT course with impeccable military precision, demonstrating grit, coordination, and indomitable resolve.
As the sun cast its golden glow upon the gleaming course, the echoes of selfless service and unyielding courage reverberated through the rendition of the NCC song marking the profound culmination of the inauguration ceremony. The course stands not only as a tribute to a gallant warrior but also as a call to arms for future sentinels of the nation, proving once more that heroes never truly die—they live on through the values they leave behind. |
