Participants of the 10-day training programme pose for a photo in Chümoukedima on January 14.
Chümoukedima, January 16 (MExN): A ten-day Flying Training Camp for Air Wing NCC cadets from across the North Eastern Region (NER) was conducted under the aegis of the NCC Directorate North Eastern Region (NCC DTE NER) from January 5 to 14 at Patkai Christian College, Chümoukedima.
An update received here stated that the camp marked a significant milestone in the NER Directorate’s training calendar, reaffirming its commitment to providing meaningful, skill-oriented and inspirational exposure to cadets from the geographically challenging region.
Since assuming charge as Additional Director General, NCC DTE NER, Maj Gen Anuraj Vij has laid strong emphasis on qualitative training, innovation and ensuring equal opportunities for cadets of the North East. In this spirit, the flying camp emerged as a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region, offering flying exposure to as many as 388 Air Wing NCC cadets, including those from remote and far-flung areas, many of whom experienced powered flying for the first time.
The actual flying experience proved to be the highlight of the camp, generating enthusiasm, confidence and a spirit of adventure among the cadets. For many participants, it was the realisation of a long-cherished dream, instilling pride and aspiration towards careers in aviation and the Armed Forces. Notably, 17 cadets from Manipur’s Churachandpur district also took part in the camp and resumed flying after a gap of three years, making their participation particularly significant.
In keeping with a holistic training approach, the camp went beyond flying activities. Structured ground classes were conducted on aviation subjects, air navigation, meteorology, aviation safety and aerospace awareness. Cadets were also provided hands-on exposure to aeromodelling, enhancing their understanding of the principles of flight, aircraft design and engineering through practical demonstrations and interactive sessions.
Drone flying training was another key focus area of the camp. Cadets were introduced to the fundamentals of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and their applications in defence, disaster management, surveillance and nation-building. Under expert supervision, cadets received hands-on training in drone operations, generating keen interest in emerging aviation technologies and future-ready skill sets.
Physical fitness and discipline were reinforced through drill sessions, sports activities and structured physical training, aimed at fostering teamwork, endurance and leadership qualities. Cultural programmes and social interaction activities provided a platform for cadets to showcase the rich diversity of the North East, strengthening bonds of camaraderie and national integration.
During the camp, Brig Shantanu P Mainkar, Group Commander, NCC Group Kohima, addressed the cadets and highlighted the vital role of NCC cadets in nation-building, character development and societal leadership. He expressed satisfaction over the high standards of training, discipline and motivation displayed by the cadets, and commended the instructors and staff for their collective efforts in making the camp a success.
Overall, the ten-day flying camp emerged as a transformational experience, blending aviation exposure with discipline, technology, sports, social values and national spirit, and setting a benchmark for future NCC training initiatives in the North Eastern Region.
