The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday airlifted 132 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets stranded in Manipur to Assam amid prevailing security concerns and movement restrictions in the state, officials said.
The cadets were participating in the NCC North Eastern Region (NER) Flying Camp in Imphal from May 11 to May 20 but were unable to return home by road due to ongoing security-related restrictions and logistical challenges in the region.
In a coordinated emergency operation, the evacuation was carried out jointly by the NCC NER Directorate, Headquarters Director General NCC, and the Headquarters Eastern Air Command, officials said.
As part of the special airlift mission conducted on May 23, the IAF deployed three AN-32 aircraft to transport the cadets safely out of Imphal. Of the total 132 cadets, 60 were flown to Jorhat and 72 to Guwahati in Assam.
Officials said the swift intervention ensured that the cadets would be able to reach their respective destinations in time for their academic commitments, bringing relief to their families who had been concerned about their safety.
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A senior official said the timely action ensured the safe return of all cadets and helped ease anxiety among parents and guardians.
The NCC Directorate North Eastern Region, in a post on X, described the operation as a reflection of unity, resilience and coordinated response in difficult circumstances.
It said the successful evacuation highlighted teamwork and the armed forces’ commitment to cadet welfare and national unity.
The cadets also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force and NCC authorities for the prompt assistance during the emergency situation.
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