Hi all!

 Below is the write up about the experience of Vaibhav Adukoori when he attended an adventure camp in Shillong. Vaibhav Adukoori is the grand son of Dr.U.Srinivas and Sujata (son of their elder daughter Dr.A.Vijaya)

Devi

My adventure camp at 58GTC, Shillong

During this summer, I attended a summer adventure camp organized by 58 Gorkha Training Center in Shillong. It was known as, ‘Eastern Command Young Lions adventure camp.’ The duration of the camp was for one week and here I learnt innumerable lessons which are bound to stay with me for life. This camp has taught me the value of my home and mother, whom I used to take for granted.

This camp has been an enriching experience for me, and I’m fortunate to be one of the few children to get this opportunity.

Our morning routine started at five O’ clock in the morning by fetching our own hot water in buckets where the weather was freezing cold in Shillong. At 6^O’clock we had to do P.T which involved exercises and games. We had to assemble in the common dining hall for breakfast which was the same that was served to the recruits, usually consisted of puri and sabzi. Breakfast was followed by the activity for the day.

On the first day we were addressed by the Commandant of the center and then were briefed about our schedule for the camp. The first activity was archery at Gaje Ghale ground, next to our rooms. We were taught the basics by the instructors and then we had a competition. Every activity was followed by a competition of that event. We also did LMG firing, precision shooting, map reading, navigation and also learnt bivouac tent pitching which can prove to be life saving in some situations. After the activity for the day we had our lunch which was, to say the least, horrendous. But it taught us the value of mum’s cooking. Then there was an hour of rest and then games for 1 hour in the afternoon. We played sports like volleyball, basketball, handball, did gymming played badminton and also witnessed an inter company handball match. Our evening programme was diverse but it usually had something to do with regimental history or army customs .We also had academic activities like debate, essay and a quiz competition in which I stood first. We also witnessed the magnificent military band of 58 GTC; this was followed by dinner and then sleep. However we partied on till 2 in the night and then we would conk off.

The place being a training center produced many Olympians, asiads and commonwealth games winners. We were also made to witness their expertise at taekwondo, karate and boxing. They also showed us rock craft and how to do a battle obstacle course which includes one of the toughest obstacles any person has attempted. We also saw the “kasam parade” or passing out ceremony where the recruits take their oath. It was a true testimony to the discipline that the soldiers inculcate during 40 weeks of grueling training. Part of the camp itenary involved a city tour of Shillong during which we visited Shillong peak and saw the picturesque Ward’s lake. The end of the camp was marked by a cultural programme that was compeered by me and my friend. There were various performances put up by all the participants of the camp which included songs, dances, stories and even shayaries. The program was graced by the commandant who, after the show gave away our prizes and certificates.

During the entire duration of the camp I made many new friends and interacted with people from all corners of the country. This taught us the value of sharing and adjusting to different environments and people. These values have had an enriching impact on my perspective towards small but important things in life. I have cherished every moment of this camp and will carry many happy, lasting memories.

Vaibhav Adukoori


Comment by U S Murthy (Suri babu) and Vithal Raja 

We have gone thro' the write up of Chy.Vaibhav.It is indeed very interesting and educative even to elders like us.His last sentence in the Write up is particularly very apt to all children in his age group.His analysis is fantastic and useful to all.

       May God bless Vaibhav with a bright future and a motto of service to Humanity.