RNTU NCC cadets undertake Heritage Walk in Bhopal on the theme “Vikas Bhi – Virasat Bhi”, why was it so special

Bhopal: Fifteen enthusiastic NCC cadets of Rabindranath Tagore University (RNTU) along with NCC Officer Sub Lieutenant Manoj Singh Manral and Instructor Durga Verma took part in an engaging heritage walk of various historical and developmental sites of Bhopal. Organised under the theme Vikas Bhi – Virasat Bhi, the initiative aims to inculcate a deep appreciation for both the rich history and rapid progress of the city.

The day-long educational tour was special because it successfully achieved its objective of educating the cadets about Bhopal’s historical heritage and contemporary development, thereby inculcating a sense of pride and responsibility towards both. The tour began with a visit to important heritage sites, where the cadets learnt in detail about Bhopal’s past.

The first stop was Jagdishpur Fort, a site rich in historical significance. Here, the cadets explored the remains of the fort, learnt about its strategic importance and stories related to its construction and inhabitants.

The contingent then visited the imposing Gohar Mahal, a beautiful example of a blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The cadets admired its intricate design and learnt about the royal patronage it received. The historical context of the palace was explained, which led to further discussions and questions among the young participants.

The heritage tour continued to Shaukat Mahal, known for its unique blend of European and Islamic architecture. The cadets were particularly fascinated by its distinctive features and the stories behind its design. A short quiz competition was held at each of these heritage sites, challenging the cadets to understand and retain the historical information presented.

After exploring the historical treasures of Bhopal, the cadets turned their focus to the modern advancements of the city. The group visited the VIP Road and the iconic Raja Bhoj Bridge and observed the urban infrastructure and connectivity that has transformed Bhopal. The cadets discussed the planning and development of these modern marvels, understanding their role in the development of the city.

The last stop on the itinerary was the state-of-the-art Rani Kamlapati (RKMP) Railway Station. Here the cadets witnessed first-hand the advancements in public transport and infrastructure, observing the modern facilities and efficient operations of the station. This presented a concrete example of how Bhopal is evolving into a smart and progressive city.

The theme Vikas Bhi – Virasat Bhi resonated strongly throughout the day. The cadets not only learnt about the historical significance of the heritage sites but also keenly observed how Bhopal is harmoniously balancing its development with the preservation of its invaluable past.

Sub Lieutenant Manoj Singh Manral, highlighting the importance of such an initiative said “This heritage walk was designed to provide our cadets with a holistic understanding of Bhopal. It is important for them to recognise and celebrate the progress of our city. The theme Vikas Bhi – Virasat Bhi encourages a balanced approach, which is important for future generations.”