Quick Glance
- 132 NCC cadets were evacuated from Imphal, Manipur by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- Three AN-32 aircraft carried cadets to Guwahati and Jorhat in Assam.
- The evacuation followed security restrictions and road movement disruptions in Manipur.
- NCC authorities and the Eastern Air Command coordinated the special rescue mission.
Agartala/Guwahati: Amid the continuing security concerns in Manipur, the Indian Air Force evacuated 132 NCC cadets from Imphal to Assam on May 23. The cadets had attended the NCC North Eastern Region Flying Camp and faced travel disruptions due to restrictions on road movement across the state.
Indian Air Force Conducts Emergency Evacuation in Manipur
The Indian Air Force (IAF) launched a special evacuation operation on Saturday to rescue 132 NCC cadets stranded in Manipur amid the prevailing security situation in the state.
The cadets had participated in the NCC North Eastern Region (NER) Flying Camp held in Imphal between May 11 and May 20, 2026. However, growing security concerns and restrictions on road transportation prevented them from returning home safely through regular routes.
Officials said the evacuation operation highlighted the coordination between defence agencies and NCC authorities during an emergency situation in the Northeast.
The cadets were airlifted from Imphal to Guwahati and Jorhat in Assam using three AN-32 aircraft deployed by the Indian Air Force.
NCC and Defence Authorities Coordinated the Rescue Mission
Senior officials stated that the NCC North Eastern Region Directorate planned the operation in consultation with the Headquarters Director General NCC. The Headquarters Eastern Air Command also supported the mission.
Authorities acted quickly after road connectivity became uncertain due to the law-and-order situation in Manipur.
Officials said the primary objective was to ensure the safety of the cadets and help them return home before their upcoming examinations.
The swift operation brought relief to anxious parents and guardians who had been closely monitoring developments in Manipur.
Breakdown of the Evacuation Operation
The Indian Air Force carried out the evacuation mission on May 23 through a carefully planned airlift operation.
| Destination | Number of Cadets | Aircraft Used |
|---|---|---|
| Jorhat, Assam | 60 | AN-32 |
| Guwahati, Assam | 72 | AN-32 |
| Total | 132 | 3 Aircraft |
Officials confirmed that all cadets safely reached their destinations without any reported complications.
Cadets Thank Defence Ministry and IAF
Following the successful evacuation, NCC cadets expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force, and NCC authorities for the timely assistance.
According to officials, the cadets appreciated the quick response during a difficult period in Manipur. Many cadets were worried about delayed travel and uncertainty surrounding road transport.
The operation also reassured parents who feared prolonged disruptions in the conflict-affected region.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the NCC Directorate North Eastern Region praised the unity and resilience displayed during the evacuation exercise.
The Directorate stated that the mission reflected teamwork, dedication to cadet welfare, and commitment to national unity.
Security Situation in Manipur Continues to Affect Movement
The latest evacuation once again highlighted how security disturbances in Manipur continue to impact civilian movement and transportation across the Northeast.
Several routes in the state have witnessed restrictions in recent months due to tensions and security concerns. As a result, authorities often depend on alternative arrangements to ensure safe movement during emergencies.
The airlift operation demonstrated the Indian Air Force’s preparedness to support civilian rescue efforts when conventional transport systems become unreliable.
Defence observers said such coordinated rescue operations strengthen public confidence, especially among families in the Northeast region.
The successful evacuation also underlined the strategic importance of cooperation between the armed forces and youth organisations like the National Cadet Corps during crisis situations.
Northeast Connectivity and Emergency Response Under Focus
The incident has once again drawn attention to emergency response systems in the Northeast, particularly in states affected by unrest and transportation challenges.
Experts believe improved coordination between security agencies, civil administration, and aviation authorities can help reduce risks during sudden disruptions.
The Indian Air Force has played a critical role in several rescue and humanitarian missions across the Northeast over the years. Saturday’s evacuation operation added another example to that record.
Authorities have not reported any injuries or untoward incidents during the mission.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Why were the NCC cadets stranded in Manipur?
The cadets could not travel by road due to the prevailing security situation and movement restrictions in Manipur.
How many NCC cadets were evacuated by the Indian Air Force?
The Indian Air Force evacuated 132 NCC cadets from Imphal to Assam.
Where were the cadets taken after evacuation?
The cadets were airlifted to Guwahati and Jorhat in Assam using three AN-32 aircraft.