Nagpur: The Maharashtra Naval Area of the Indian Navy’s Western Naval Command is conducting the “Maha Connect” Rally 2024 from July 8th to July 18th. This extensive rally covers over 5,500 kilometers across the Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Konkan regions of Maharashtra, spanning 33 districts.
The rally’s Vidarbha leg began on July 8th in Mumbai, featuring a team of 13 Naval personnel, including officers, sailors, and Agni Veers. The route includes stops in Vasai, Nashik, Dhule, Jalgaon, Akola, and Amravati, ending in Nagpur. The main goal is to engage with students from schools, colleges, and local NCC units, encouraging them to consider careers in the Indian Navy and educating them about the Navy’s roles and India’s maritime heritage.
The rally also involves interactions with armed forces veterans and coastal awareness campaigns. Environmental initiatives, such as tree planting, environmental awareness, and cleanliness drives, are also promoted. Emphasizing ‘Naari Shakti’ (Women Empowerment), the rally includes a woman officer and two women Agniveers.
Upon reaching Nagpur, the rally received a warm welcome from Commander Ankit Batra, Commanding Officer, 4 Maharashtra Naval Unit NCC, Officers from the Naval Armament Inspectorate (Nagpur), and cadets of 4 Maharashtra Naval Unit NCC, 2 Air Squadron, and 20 Battalion. Interaction sessions with NCC cadets were held, informing them about various Indian Navy entry schemes and sharing personal experiences to motivate them. Commodore Abhayankar (Rtd) then flagged off the rally for its next leg, wishing the crew success.
The rally will continue to Aurangabad and Pune before concluding in Mumbai on July 18th.
