Media Release
Udupi, Sep 30: The coastal town of Udupi is set to become a hub of maritime excellence as 72 selected Naval NCC cadets from Karnataka and Goa prepare to embark on a challenging river and ocean sailing expedition. The 15-day camp, a key step in the pursuit of the coveted All-India ‘Most Entertaining Naval Unit’ (MENU) Trophy, is scheduled to commence on October 6.
Organized by the Number 6 Karnataka Naval Unit of NCC, Udupi, under the guidance of the Karnataka and Goa NCC directorate, the camp will be conducted under the aegis of the Mangalore Group, headed by Col Viraj Kamath. Operational leadership will be provided by commandant Cdr Ashwin Rao, assisted by deputy camp commandant Cdr Libin Johnson.
The expedition is designed as a comprehensive test of skill, endurance, and teamwork. Prior to setting sail, the cadets will undergo rigorous Pre-MENU training from October 1 to 5. This intensive preparatory phase will equip them with essential knowledge of boat handling, safety procedures, and navigation techniques required for the arduous journey ahead.
The expedition will begin at the serene Papanashini river in Udyavar, from where the cadets will sail into the open ocean at Malpe Port. Their voyage will then trace the picturesque coastline southwards, covering landmarks such as the Mulki coast and Suratkal coast, before concluding at the New Mangalore Port. In total, the teams are set to cover an impressive distance of 219 km, a true testament to their resilience.
A fleet of three Whaler Class boats, accompanied by dedicated safety boats, will be deployed for the expedition. In a move reflecting the NCC's commitment to inclusivity, each whaler will be crewed by six cadets—four boys and two girls—fostering a collaborative and balanced learning environment.
The objectives of the expedition go beyond sailing proficiency. It aims to provide cadets with hands-on experience in wind-powered navigation, nurture self-confidence, strengthen teamwork, and instill vital survival skills at sea. The journey also seeks to inspire a lasting passion for watermanship activities among the youth.
Adding a social dimension to the adventure, the cadets will engage in Social Service and Community Development (SSCD) activities throughout the camp. These include awareness campaigns on drug abuse, cybersecurity, and road safety, participation in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by cleaning local water bodies, and visits to old age homes and orphanages—reinforcing the NCC's ethos of community service.
Several distinguished dignitaries are expected to grace the camp as chief guests on various occasions. Swaroopa T K, deputy commissioner of Udupi, Hariram Shankar, superintendent of police of Udupi, and Air Cmde B Arun Kumar, deputy director general of the NCC Karnataka and Goa directorate, are among those who will visit to encourage the cadets.
The MENU Trophy is one of the highest honours a Naval NCC unit can achieve, with the winning unit recognized by the Prime Minister during the Republic Day parade. This expedition, therefore, represents not only a training exercise but also a significant competitive endeavour, putting the skills and discipline of the Karnataka and Goa cadets to the national test. All eyes will be on Udupi as these young sailors prepare to harness the wind and waves in a display of courage and determination.