The Indian Navy, as part of its ongoing celebration of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ has joined forces with TVS Motor Company, a renowned manufacturer of two and three-wheelers, to embark on a thrilling motorcycle expedition in Ladakh, known as the land of high passes. This 28-day expedition, riding TVS Apache motorcycles, serves as a commemoration of the 75th year of India’s independence and is part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations. The journey was flagged off from New Delhi today, at the National War Memorial, by Vice Admiral SJ Singh, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, and Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company.
The expedition, led by the Indian Navy’s Motorcycle team called ‘The Sea Riders,’ consists of over 34 officers who will traverse the challenging terrains on TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and TVS Apache RR 310 motorcycles. The route will take them through Chandigarh, Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil & Nubra, before reaching Leh, covering a total distance of approximately 5,600 kilometers. The ride aims to culminate at the National War Memorial on July 12, 2023.
TVS Apache motorcycles have played a significant role in fostering a premium motorcycling culture and have gained popularity among motorcycle enthusiasts. As one of the fastest-growing brands in the 150-250cc segment, TVS Apache boasts a strong community of over 5 million customers across 60+ countries.
Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, expressed his pride and humility in partnering with the Indian Navy for the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations. He highlighted TVS Motor’s commitment to innovation and adventure, which aligns with this collaboration. This partnership signifies a shared commitment to excellence and showcases the prowess of TVS Apache motorcycles in diverse and challenging terrains. Mr. Sumbly extended his best wishes to the officers for their journey, emphasizing the shared values of courage, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral SJ Singh, AVSM, NM, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, emphasized the Navy’s promotion of adventure activities to inspire personnel to aim higher and achieve better, while also fostering team-building and camaraderie crucial for their performance at sea. He congratulated the Sea Riders for undertaking an expedition aimed at enhancing maritime consciousness and awareness about the Navy in an important part of the country, Ladakh, which is distant from the seas but close to their hearts. He wished them a safe and memorable ride on the TVS Apache motorcycles.
The expedition will be conducted in two phases, covering vast lands and regions in the northern territory, including the pristine and enchanting Ladakh. During the journey, the Sea Riders will undertake various activities to raise awareness about the Indian Navy in the region. These activities include conducting awareness drives at schools and colleges in Ladakh about the career opportunities available with the Indian Navy, including the Agneepath Scheme. The contingent will also demonstrate its commitment to the Naari Shakti initiative by featuring women officers as part of the expedition, aiming to motivate the youth to join the Indian Navy.
In addition to the ride itself, the Sea Riders will pay homage to the martyrs of the Kargil War at the Kargil War Memorial and commemorate the martyrs of the 1962 battle of Rezang La. As part of the planned activities during the expedition, a band concert featuring the renowned Navy Band and a Football Match between the Navy and the Ladakh Football Club have been organized in Ladakh.
Overall, this motorcycle expedition in Ladakh symbolizes the spirit of adventure, resilience, and patriotism. It showcases the spirit of collaboration between the Indian Navy and TVS Motor Company, both driven by a shared vision of excellence and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
By embarking on this challenging journey through the rugged terrains of Ladakh, the Sea Riders aim to increase awareness about the Indian Navy and its career opportunities, particularly among the youth in the region. Through their interactions with schools, colleges, and local communities, they will inspire and motivate aspiring individuals to join the Indian Navy, emphasizing the importance of maritime consciousness and the role of the Navy in safeguarding the nation’s interests.
The expedition holds a special significance as it pays tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending the nation. The Sea Riders will honor the Kargil martyrs at the Kargil War Memorial and remember the valiant soldiers who fought in the historic battle of Rezang La in 1962. These acts of remembrance and respect serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces to uphold the nation’s sovereignty.
Furthermore, the expedition also provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and camaraderie-building. The planned activities, such as the band concert featuring the Navy Band and the football match between the Navy and the Ladakh Football Club, aim to foster a sense of unity and mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the local community.
As the Sea Riders journey through Ladakh on their TVS Apache motorcycles, they embody the spirit of adventure and exploration. This expedition not only showcases the capabilities of the TVS Apache motorcycles in challenging terrains but also serves as a testament to the courage and determination of the Indian Navy personnel.
The collaboration between the Indian Navy and TVS Motor Company sets a remarkable example of public-private partnership in promoting adventure, patriotism, and career opportunities. It reflects the commitment of both entities to inspire and instill a sense of pride among the Indian youth, encouraging them to contribute to the nation’s defense and maritime endeavors.
As the expedition progresses, the Sea Riders, supported by TVS Motor Company, will continue to capture the attention and admiration of motorcycle enthusiasts, adventure enthusiasts, and the public at large. Their journey through Ladakh will not only be a memorable experience for the participants but will also leave a lasting impression on the people they meet along the way, reinforcing the indomitable spirit of India and its armed forces.
The Indian Navy’s motorcycle expedition in Ladakh, in collaboration with TVS Motor Company, stands as a shining example of unity, determination, and national pride, showcasing the spirit of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and celebrating 75 years of India’s independence in a unique and memorable way.
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