NCC Cadets Begin 1,680-km Pune to Delhi Cycle Expedition Inspired by Peshwa Bajirao I
Shaniwar Peth, 24th December 2025: The NCC Directorate Maharashtra’s Pune–Delhi Cycle Expedition titled ‘Shaurya ke Kadam, Kranti ki Ore’ was flagged off from the historic Shaniwar Wada on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a 1,680-km journey celebrating courage, unity and national pride. The expedition is part of a larger national initiative and will culminate in Delhi on January 27, 2026, where the Prime Minister will flag in the cycle rally team.
The expedition draws inspiration from the legendary Maratha warrior General Peshwa Bajirao I, who led a historic military campaign from Pune to Delhi, winning 41 battles against the Mughals, Portuguese and the Nizam. Replicating this iconic route through Malwa and Bundelkhand, NCC cadets will traverse five states, engaging with local youth and communities to spread awareness on national unity, fitness, road safety and social responsibility, while reinforcing the ethos of “Nation First” and India’s unity in diversity.
The cycle expedition team is led by Brigadier Sachin Gawali, Group Commander, NCC Group Headquarters Amravati. It comprises 12 NCC cadets, including six girl cadets, along with support staff. The cadets were selected after a rigorous selection process and underwent an intensive three-month training programme to prepare for the demanding journey.
In the lead-up to the flag-off ceremony, NCC cadets participated in several social service activities at Sinnar, the birthplace of Peshwa Bajirao, and at Shaniwar Wada in Pune. Blood donation camps, tree plantation drives and shramdan activities highlighted their commitment to social welfare, environmental protection and community service. The cadets also attended the Shaniwar Wada light and sound show and sought blessings at the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, drawing cultural and spiritual inspiration ahead of the expedition.
Major General Vivek Tyagi, Additional Director General, NCC Directorate Maharashtra, congratulated the cadets on their selection and lauded their dedication and discipline. He conveyed his best wishes for a safe and successful journey. The flag-off event saw enthusiastic participation from youth, NCC cadets and citizens, who cheered the team as it embarked on its mission.
Bollywood actor Vivaan Shah, who joined the event at Shaniwar Wada, praised the cadets for their perseverance and commitment. He wished them good health and success, and urged citizens to support and celebrate the young ambassadors carrying forward the spirit of Viksit Bharat@2047.
