DIRANG, 10 Oct: In a first for the NCC Northeastern Region, 30 NCC cadets - 15 boys and 15 girls - from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have embarked on a high-altitude trekking expedition along the historic Bailey's Trail in western Arunachal.

The expedition is being conducted from 5 to 20 October by 2 Arunachal Pradesh Battalion NCC, Tawang, in collaboration with the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Dirang, under the aegis of NCC Northeastern Region Directorate.

The expedition was flagged off from the NIMAS on 8 October by Brigadier Mayank Vaid, Commander NCC Group HQ (B), in the presence of NIMAS Director Colonel RS Jamwal, and Dirang ADC Choiki Dondup.

Prior to the expedition, the cadets underwent acclimatisation and specialised training at the NIMAS, including physical conditioning, high-altitude trekking, mountain safety, rock climbing, and rappelling.

The trek will take the cadets through challenging high-altitude terrain covering Mago, Jithang, Lap, Kammiala Pass, Potak, Changla, Tungri and Chander, with the highest sections reaching over 16,900 ft.

Carrying their own rucksacks and essential equipment, the cadets will test their endurance, resilience, teamwork and self-reliance.

The expedition will also provide the cadets with an opportunity to experience the spectacular Himalayan landscape, the Gorichen massif, alpine meadows, glacial lakes and rich biodiversity, besides interacting with the Brokpa community and experiencing the region's unique cultural heritage. (DIPRO)