The Indian Navy, in association with TVS Motor Company, part of TVS VENU, a reputed global manufacturer of two-and three-wheelers, flagged off the ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition today from Kohli Stadium, Navynagar, Mumbai.
The 14 day ride will cover over 1600 km and include scaling of 10 Forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, including those recently inscribed on the UNESCO heritage List under the nomination “Maratha Military Landscapes of India”. The ride also aims to raise awareness among the youth about career opportunities in the Indian Navy, with a special focus on the Agnipath Scheme – the Government of India’s short-term recruitment programme for personnel below officer rank in the Armed Forces.
The 25-member contingent, led by Capt Shekhar Deshpande, comprises of Officers, Sailors and Agniveers, including women Officers and women Agniveers as well as ladies of the naval community – thereby showcasing Indian Navy’s thrust on Nari Shakti. The adventurous route cutting across through interior towns and villages of Maharashtra will be covered by the Indian Navy riders on TVS Ronin Motorcycles. This collaboration with the Indian Navy gives TVS Motor Company the privilege of taking the stories of exploration, adventure and friendship to young Indians through the very landscapes that have shaped India’s maritime heritage.
During the address at the Flag-Off Ceremony, V Adm Rahul Vilas Gokhale, Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command, stated that Indian Navy continues to be a dominant force in the high seas and its spirit of adventure, exploration and outreach is aptly reflected in this “Fleet to Forts” Motorcycle Expedition. He stated that the Forts stand as enduring reminders of vision, courage, organisation, resilience and the ability to build a formidable military capability in very challenging circumstances and said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj remains a the continuous source of inspiration for Indian Navy for building indigenous Maritime Capability. He also called upon the riders to carry a message to Young India to serve the nation with pride and exhorted the riders to use the opportunity to experience the culture, communities, landscapes and heritage that makes Maharashtra so remarkable.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head, Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are extremely proud and honoured to continue our association with the Indian Navy through the ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition. The journey brings alive stories of valour, resilience and ingenuity, taking these inspiring stories to young Indians through historic forts and coastal landscapes that have shaped our maritime heritage. This spirit resonates deeply with the TVS Ronin, which encourages riders to chart their own path, embrace the unexpected and turn every journey into a story of their own. Through an #Unscripted lifestyle rooted in individuality and exploration, Ronin inspires riders to experience the road differently. We hope this expedition inspires a new generation to carry forward the courage, creativity and sense of purpose that define our shared journey. We wish the entire contingent a safe and memorable ride.”
The ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition brings together adventure, heritage and service, while creating an opportunity to connect with the next generation and inspire young Indians to explore avenues for nation-building.
