In a tribute to the historic Dandi March, 40 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from Gujarat, comprising 20 boys and 20 girls, have undertaken a 14-day Pad Yatra (foot march) from Sabarmati Ashram to the Dandi Salt Satyagraha Memorial. The march, spanning 410 kilometres, began on December 10, 2024 and will conclude on December 23, 2024.
Covering approximately 40 kilometres per day, the cadets aim to spread powerful messages of nation-building and social transformation through their journey.
The Pad Yatra was ceremonially flagged off from Sabarmati Ashram on December 10, 2024 by MoS (Education) Praful Pansheriya in the presence of dignitaries, NCC officers and enthusiastic well-wishers.
Pansheriya remarked, “This is a proud moment for Gujarat and the entire nation. The spirit of the Dandi March lives on in the hearts of these young cadets, who are not only paying homage to Gandhiji’s legacy but also carrying forward his ideals of unity, non-violence and self-reliance.”
Cadets’ Foot March Activities
The cadets will engage with communities along the route through impactful street plays and awareness programs. Their themes include Vikshit Bharat, a vision for a developed India; Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance; Swachh Bharat, advocating cleanliness and sanitation; Healthy India, emphasising health and wellness; Women Empowerment, highlighting gender equality; Education with Discipline and Ethics, fostering values for a brighter future; and the Fight Against Drug Menace, raising awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
On reaching the Dandi Salt Satyagraha Memorial, the cadets will symbolically prepare salt as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s historic protest. This salt will be carried to New Delhi and presented to the Prime Minister during the NCC PM Rally on January 28, 2025.
Cadets Meet Governor
The Governor of Gujarat interacted with the cadets on December 9, 2024, the eve of their historic journey, at the Raj Bhavan. He offered words of encouragement and motivation, saying, “Your dedication to this noble cause, walking in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi, will inspire not just the youth of Gujarat but the entire nation. May your journey be filled with strength, resolve and patriotism.”
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