NCC ‘Run for Unity’ turned out to be ‘Time for Sympathy’ Event?
Mangaluru: On Sunday, 24 November 2018 at 7,15 a.m., the NCC had planned for a “RUN FOR UNITY” programme near the St Aloysius College (Autonomous) Mangaluru Gate. Nearly 400 NCC cadets from seven different educational institutions, including the seven NCC officers of these institutions had gathered well in time for the event. Col. Manoj, Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Gratian Sequeira, Adm Officer, 18 Kar Bn and NCC Officers of various institution also graced the event. But unfortunately, due to the sudden demise of Former State Minister Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath, popularly known as “Ambareesh”, the vent had to be cancelled with orders sent from higher NCC authorities.
Since the NCC cadets had already taken the trouble getting up early in the morning, and assembling at the venue in time, a few NCC officers decided to have a brief talk on NCC Day, and also observe two minutes silence to the departed soul of Ambareesh- all the other activities for that morning was cancelled. Lt. Col. Gratian Sequeira gave a brief talk on NCC Day, and also recognized a few cadets who had brought glory to 18 Karnataka Battalion at the National Level, and called them on to the stage, to be applauded by other Cadets for their talents and achievements.
Speaking on NCC Day, Lt Col Gratian said, “NCC Day is an extremely important day. The NCC day is observed throughout the country, on the fourth Sunday of November, because, it was on that day in 1947 that the first units raised in Delhi. A committee under Shri HN Kunzru was set up in 1946 under the directives of the first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, to consider the establishment of a nationwide cadet corps, (which was born through the Act of Parliament on 15th July 1948 ). The first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru presided over the function of raising the first NCC Unit at Delhi on the last Sunday of Nov 1948-hence this day is celebrated!!
“The motto of NCC is “Unity and Discipline”, and in living up to its motto, the NCC strives to be and is one of the greatest cohesive forces of the nation, bringing together the youth hailing from different parts of the country and moulding them into united, secular and disciplined citizens of the nation. With the Aims of the NCC laid out in 1988, It aims at developing discipline, character, brotherhood, the spirit of adventure and ideals of selfless service amongst young citizens. Not only these, it also aims to enlighten leadership qualities among the youth who will serve the Nation regardless of which career they choose. It also motivates the young to choose a career in armed forces.” added Lt Col Gratian, and he encouraged the young cadets to show keen interest in NCC, shine and achieve their goals, and in return they will have a good job opportunities waiting for them.
Following two-minutes silence observed in respect to the departed soul of Ambareesh, it was time for a few group photos, and then ending the short event with a sumptuous breakfast. Shakin Raj, NCC Officer of St Aloysius College was the coordinator for this event, which unfortunately turned out to be an informal one. ‘Subedhar’ Shivanand also graced the event.