At the ongoing 12-day ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat – 1/25’ National Camp in Tilaiya, Koderma, NCC cadets from across India gained profound insights into the bravery of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Under the guidance of Brigadier S. Gopi Krishnan and the leadership of Commanding Officer Vijay Kumar ( Sena Medal) of the 45 Jharkhand Battalion NCC Koderma, cadets from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand commenced the ninth day with robust physical training. This was followed by various engaging activities and competitions as part of the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
The highlight of the day was an inspiring motivational speech by Colonel Sanjay Kandwal (Sena Medal) of the 36 Jharkhand Battalion, Dhanbad. Titled ‘Nation First, Self Later,’ Colonel Kandwal shared detailed accounts of the terror attacks on the Taj Hotel, Oberoi Hotel, and Nariman House. He vividly described how National Security Guards bravely rescued hostages amidst extreme challenges and neutralized the terrorists. Colonel Kandwal, who was part of the counter-terrorism operations during the 26/11 attacks, was honored with the Sena Medal by the President of India for his exceptional courage and dedication. His presentation on the ‘Black Tornado’ operation, detailing the valor of martyrs at the Taj Hotel and the operational hurdles, left the NCC cadets deeply inspired and proud.
Commanding Officer Vijay Kumar (Sena Medal) presented Colonel Sanjay Kandwal with a memento, expressing gratitude for his insightful account of the 26/11 operation. The camp also featured a National Integration Awareness Program competition organized by Second Officer Abhijit Anand, Third Officer Naveen Choudhary, and NCC Officer Lieutenant Alice Minz. Furthermore, the finals of the inter-group volleyball and Kho-Kho competitions took place. Preparations are underway for cultural events including group dances, songs, solo performances, poster making, and Rangoli competitions, coordinated by Abhijit Anand, Girls Cadet Instructor Shivani Sharma, and instructors from various participating states, alongside nine NCC officers.