All India Girls Trekking Expedition ‘HIMTREK’ Flags Off with Patriotic Fervour in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, June 6, 2025: The annual All India Girls Trekking Expedition (AIGTE)—popularly known as HIMTREK—commenced on June 6 in Dharamshala with vibrant enthusiasm and a spirit of patriotism. Organized by the Directorate General National Cadet Corps (DGNCC), the prestigious event is being hosted by 5 HP (I) Company NCC, Dharamshala, under the aegis of NCC Group Headquarters, Shimla.

The expedition is being held in two phases: the first from June 5 to June 14, and the second from June 17 to June 26. This year, nearly 1,000 girl cadets from various regions of India are participating, making it one of the largest adventure-based national integration programs for young women. Each phase features approximately 510 cadets representing eight states and two Union Territories—Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Ladakh.

The inaugural ceremony took place at the Government College Auditorium, Dharamshala, where Brigadier Harpreet Singh, Group Commander of NCC Group HQ Shimla, delivered an inspiring address. Highlighting the objectives of the expedition, he encouraged cadets to embrace the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership. He also presented trekking caps to the participants as a token of motivation.

Lt. Col. Manish Modi, the Camp Commandant, is leading the operation with dynamism, while Captain (Dr.) Monika Sharma is overseeing key activities. Dr. Sharma informed that the base camp has been established in the Cantonment area of Dharamshala, from where cadets will embark on treks to some of the most scenic and culturally significant spots in the region.

The trekking route includes visits to the HPCA Cricket Stadium, War Memorial, Tea Gardens, Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsunag Temple, Naddi Viewpoint, and Dal Lake. A special weapon display has also been organized to give cadets a close look at military equipment and ignite interest in careers in the armed forces.

A dedicated team of around 50 officers, Associate NCC Officers (ANOs), Permanent Instructors (PI Staff), and civil support staff are working round-the-clock to ensure the seamless execution of the event.

Captain (Dr.) Sharma noted that the expedition began on a high note with meticulously planned logistics and engaging activities. HIMTREK is more than just an adventure—it is a platform for national integration, fostering resilience, leadership, camaraderie, and a profound appreciation for India’s cultural and natural heritage among the nation’s young women.