SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally Flags Off to Honour Armed Forces, Promote Green Drive

In a vibrant celebration of India’s military spirit and environmental consciousness, the Progress Harmony Development Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF), launched the SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally on July 25, 2025. The event was flagged off by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, from the Air Force Station, New Delhi, with a stirring message of unity, courage, and sustainability.

Themed “Rashtra ka Maan, Shaurya ke Saath, Paryavaran ka Vikas” (Honour of the Nation, with Bravery and Environmental Progress), the rally reflects a unique blend of nationalism, adventure, and eco-conscious innovation—symbolising a new era of citizen-military engagement and environmental responsibility.

A Journey of Valor and Vision

Scheduled over three days from July 25 to 27, 2025, the rally will cover approximately 800 kilometres, travelling through Air Force Station Ambala and culminating at Air Force Station Adampur. The route is steeped in historical military significance and contemporary relevance, forming a symbolic corridor of bravery and service.

This grand initiative is conducted under the aegis of the Directorate of Adventure, reinforcing the Indian Armed Forces’ commitment to adventure sports, youth outreach, and soft power diplomacy.

Uniting Armed Forces and Civil Society

The SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally features 112 participants representing a wide spectrum of India’s defence and research ecosystem:

• The Three Services (Army, Navy, Air Force)

• Indian Coast Guard

• Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO)

• National Cadet Corps (NCC)

This cross-institutional participation reflects the integrated spirit of India’s defence fraternity and its effort to engage with the public in a non-combat, inspirational format.

Embracing Sustainability: Electric Vehicles Take the Lead

In a notable green push, the rally comprises 40 sponsored Tata vehicles, with a major share consisting of Electric Vehicles (EVs). This marks a significant move to promote sustainable mobility, aligning with India’s net-zero commitments and the Ministry of Defence’s own internal goals for eco-friendly infrastructure.

The use of EVs in a military-themed rally is a strong message that strength and sustainability can coexist, encouraging public and private sectors alike to embrace clean technologies without compromising on performance.

Youth Outreach: Building Tomorrow’s Heroes

One of the rally’s central missions is youth engagement. Along its route, the convoy will stop at key colleges and universities, where defence personnel and participants will interact with students, conducting motivational sessions, Q&A forums, and demonstrations.

The intent is to inspire young Indians to consider careers in the Armed Forces, with a special emphasis on:

• Patriotism and national service

• Courage and discipline

• Adventure and leadership opportunities

• Inclusivity in defence services

Such interactions are part of the broader objective of reshaping public perception of military careers, not only as a duty-bound service but also as a pathway to excellence, innovation, and national pride.

Operation Sindoor: The Rally’s Emotional Core

The SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally is also a tribute to the heroes of Operation Sindoor, a successful defence operation whose valorous efforts left a lasting legacy within India’s security architecture. Though specific details of the operation remain classified, it holds an emblematic place in the modern military ethos of precision, planning, and sacrifice.

By dedicating this rally to Operation Sindoor, the organizers aim to institutionalize remembrance while fostering public admiration for India's defence forces.

Leadership and Institutional Support

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, while flagging off the rally, lauded the initiative and highlighted the growing importance of defence-civil society collaboration. He noted:

“The SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally is more than a ceremonial tribute—it is a journey of national values, resilience, and our shared responsibility toward a greener future. It brings together our armed forces, industry, and youth in a common cause.”

The event also reflects PHDCCI’s commitment to national integration and youth development, expanding its traditional role beyond commerce to social impact and nation-building.

Looking Ahead: Spirit of Shaurya in Every Mile

As the convoy moves through northern India’s heartland, each kilometre is a symbolic march towards a progressive, brave, and environmentally responsible India. Through the SHAURYA BHARAT Car Rally, the message is clear—patriotism today must combine courage with care for the planet.

With future editions likely to expand in scope, the rally is poised to become an annual tradition of honour and outreach, inspiring generations of citizens and warriors alike.