The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a special airlift operation on Saturday, evacuating 132 stranded National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from Imphal to Assam. The cadets, who had participated in the NER NCC Flying Camp that concluded on Wednesday, were unable to return home due to sudden road blockades in Manipur.
Details of the Airlift Operation
The National Cadet Corps announced on X that the IAF deployed three AN-32 aircraft for the evacuation. A total of 60 cadets were flown to Jorhat, while 72 cadets were transported to Guwahati. The prompt support extended by the IAF provided solace and comfort to the anxious parents of the cadets.
The NCC Directorate North Eastern Region confirmed that the 132 cadets had attended the NER Flying Camp at Imphal from May 11 to 20. The evacuation was planned by the NCC NER Directorate in consultation with Headquarters DG NCC and in coordination with Headquarters Eastern Air Command.
Timely Action Ensures Safety
The swift and timely action ensured that the cadets safely reached their destinations in time for their examinations, bringing immense relief and happiness to their parents. The NCC cadets have also conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for the care, support, and timely assistance extended to them.
The NCC Directorate further stated, "In view of the prevailing situation in Manipur, cadets from Jorhat and Guwahati were unable to travel home by road. The IAF conducted a special airlift operation on 23 May 2026 comprising three AN-32 aircraft evacuating 60 cadets to Jorhat and 72 cadets to Guwahati."
Background and Context
The NER NCC Flying Camp was held from May 11 to 20 in Imphal, bringing together cadets from various parts of the Northeast region. The sudden road blockades in Manipur created an emergency situation, prompting the NCC to seek IAF assistance for the safe return of the cadets.
This operation highlights the coordination between the NCC and the IAF in ensuring the welfare of young cadets. The parents of the evacuated cadets expressed their gratitude for the swift response that allowed their children to return home safely and on time for their examinations.
