Drass, Ladakh: The D5 Motorcycle Expedition concluded with a grand flagging-in ceremony at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, commemorating the Rajat Jayanti of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The event was graced by Lt Gen V. Suchindra Kumar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, who honored the expedition team for their remarkable journey.
The D5 Motorcycle Expedition, a prelude to the Rajat Jayanti Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration, earned recognition in the Asian Book of Records and India Book of Records after covering 17,000 km. The expedition commenced from various regions across India and converged at the National War Memorial in New Delhi before splitting into two routes: one through Jammu and the other through Chandigarh and Leh, both culminating at Drass.
Throughout their journey, the expedition team interacted with approximately 1,200 NCC youths, inspiring them to join the Indian Army. They also met with Veer Naris and families of martyrs, honoring their sacrifices and educating them about the 1999 Kargil War.
The ceremony saw the presence of distinguished officials, including DG Artillery Lt Gen Adosh Kumar, GOC 14 Corps Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, GOC 8 Mountain Division Maj Gen Sachin Malik, alongside officers, war veterans, and the D5 Motorcycle Expedition team.
Lt Col Manoj Kumar Nayar, Chief Coordinator of the Expedition, emphasized the journey’s role in commemorating the sacrifices of brave soldiers and symbolizing the unity and resilience of the Indian Army. He highlighted that the expedition, featuring personnel from across the nation, aimed to pay homage to Veer Naris, Kargil Awardees, and Veterans through various events along the route.
Dr. Pradeep Bhardwaj, who verified the expedition, confirmed its eligibility for the Asian Book of Records and India Book of Records based on the journey’s unique aspects and verified facts.
In his address, Lt Gen V. Suchindra Kumar reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to honoring those who sacrificed their lives and those injured during the 1999 Kargil War. He praised the unwavering resolve and courage displayed during Operation Vijay and noted that the bravery and patriotism of the martyrs would continue to inspire future generations. He congratulated the D5 Motorcycle Expedition team for their successful journey.
The expedition stands as a testament to the valor of Indian soldiers and the enduring spirit of the Indian Army.