NCC Cadet Muskan Triumphs in 300-Km Himalayan Cycling Rally
Cadet Muskan's Remarkable Achievement
Is a student of Vallabh Government College, Mandi
Munish Sood
MANDI:
Cadet Muskan, representing the NCC Air Wing at Vallabh Government College, Mandi, has made her college and the state of Himachal Pradesh proud by completing a challenging 300-km cycling rally that included the daunting Jalori Pass, which stands at an elevation of 10,800 feet in the Himalayas.
As part of a 33-member team organized by the Himachal Pradesh Air Squadron NCC in Kullu, Cadet Muskan faced some of the most rugged terrains in the Himalayan region, which tested the physical and mental endurance of all participants.
According to Flight Commander and NCC Officer of the Air Wing at Vallabh Government College, Flying Officer Dr. Chaman Lal Kranti Singh, the main goal of this cycling expedition was to inspire youth, particularly from rural and mountainous areas, to explore careers in the armed forces. The rally also aimed to promote a drug-free lifestyle and raise awareness about the significance of physical fitness while instilling values of discipline and perseverance among the youth.
Dr. Chaman emphasized that Cadet Muskan’s participation in this demanding rally is a testament to her bravery, determination, and discipline. Her success also highlights the high-quality NCC training provided at Vallabh Government College, Mandi.
The cycling rally, organized under the auspices of the NCC Group Headquarters in Shimla and the Department of Higher Education (DHE), covered a challenging route that included Kullu, Banjar, Jalori Top, Ani, Narkanda, Theog, and the state capital, Shimla. Throughout the journey, cadets exhibited remarkable stamina, courage, and discipline, which are essential traits for those aspiring to serve in the armed forces.
Wing Commander Kunal Sharma, Commanding Officer of the Himachal Pradesh Air Squadron NCC, Kullu, successfully led the 300-km cycling campaign. During the rally, the NCC team engaged with approximately 3,400 students from 15 educational institutions, informing them about career opportunities in the armed forces while promoting a healthy lifestyle and the importance of avoiding substance abuse.
The cycling rally took place from November 23 to November 30, 2025. Highlighting Cadet Muskan’s previous accomplishments, Dr. Chaman noted that she had represented the Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh Directorate at the All India Air Force Camp.
Additionally, she participated in the Spiti Marathon organized by the Army’s Surya Command under Operation Sadbhavana from August 24 to August 29, 2025, successfully completing the marathon despite extremely harsh conditions, showcasing her resilience and commitment.
Upon her return to college, a special high tea was held in her honor at Vallabh Government College, Mandi. During this event, College Principal Dr. Sanjeev Kumar and Flying Officer Dr. Chaman presented Cadet Muskan with a memento and extended their best wishes for her future endeavors.
In his address, Principal Sanjeev Kumar remarked that the NCC cadets from Vallabh Government College have consistently enhanced the institution's reputation both nationally and internationally. He noted that under the guidance of Flying Officer Dr. Chaman, the college’s NCC cadets have proudly represented India in Youth Exchange Programs in countries such as Russia, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, and Bhutan.
Furthermore, he highlighted that between 2018 and 2025, over 12 NCC cadets from the college represented the Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh Directorate at the National Republic Day Camp in Delhi. During this period, more than 12 cadets from the institution were commissioned as officers in the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, receiving Presidential Commissions, which is a significant achievement for the college.
The flag-in ceremony for the cycling expedition took place at Jutogh Cantonment, Shimla, attended by Brigadier Harpreet Singh, the NCC Group Commander of Shimla. He congratulated the entire team for successfully completing the expedition despite facing sub-zero temperatures, treacherous Himalayan routes, and steep ascents at the Jalori Pass.
The felicitation ceremony at Vallabh Government College, Mandi, was attended by Flying Officer Dr. Chaman Lal Kranti Singh (NCC Air Wing), Caretaker Officer of the Army Wing Dr. Balbir Singh, Dr. Kavita, along with NCC cadets from both the Air Wing and Army Wing.