Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the nation’s leading automobile manufacturer, proudly announces its partnership with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) for an extraordinary 21-day rally covering a staggering 3,500 kilometres across Northeastern India. The rally, which commenced today in Shillong, was ceremonially flagged off by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, alongside key representatives from Maruti Suzuki, the Director General of NCC, and the Director General Assam Rifles from GOC 101 Area. This significant collaboration is geared towards encouraging young individuals to join the National Cadet Corps while fostering cultural exchange and camaraderie throughout the Northeast region.

A team of 18 dedicated NCC officers and 76 cadets will navigate this challenging course, driving a fleet of 7 Maruti Suzuki Jimnys and 5 flagship Grand Vitara SUVs. The rally will wind its way through several Northeastern states, including Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya, culminating in Guwahati on November 26, 2023, in celebration of 75 years of NCC’s illustrious history.

Mr Shashank Srivastava, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, expressed his enthusiasm about this association, saying, “Maruti Suzuki is honoured to be a part of this rally in collaboration with the NCC. Our SUVs, the Jimny and Grand Vitara, designed to conquer challenging terrains with ease, will undoubtedly enhance this expedition into an exhilarating experience. I extend my best wishes to everyone involved in this remarkable journey.”

Major General Gagan Deep, ADG, NER DTE, NCC, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “This car rally aims to instil a sense of camaraderie, leadership, sportsmanship, adventure, and patriotism among the youth, inspiring them to uphold the values that the National Cadet Corps stands for.”

During the rally, the convoy will make pit stops along the route, engaging with students from 277 schools and 151 colleges located in 44 districts. These interactions will encompass various cultural events, allowing NCC cadets to connect directly with local youth, immersing themselves in the diverse social heritage of the region. This initiative emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding among people from different backgrounds.

Maruti Suzuki’s collaboration with the NCC for this momentous journey underscores their commitment to fostering a spirit of adventure, leadership, and patriotism among the youth of India. As the rally unfolds, it promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience for all those involved, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of the participants and the communities they engage with along the way.