Thiruvananthapuram, March 20 : In keeping with the rich traditions of the Indian Army, the 54 Infantry Division is undertaking a unique expedition called the "Bison Blue Waters Expedition" from Indian mainland to the Lakshadweep Islands.

General Officer Commanding Bison Division, Major General Rajesh Singh will flag the expedition off on March 22 at Agatti in Lakshadweep.

The expedition's being primarily planned for providing adventure to men of the elite Bison Division, and would also seek to address solutions to a major environmental concern like the endangered coral reefs in the area.

Representatives from the World Wildlife Fund India and National Geographic will also be a part of the expedition, contributing their bit in helping the Indian Army meet its commitment towards presenting the national ecology of our country.

The expedition is being conducted in two legs. The Island Hopping Leg at the Lakshadweep Islands wherein, activities such as Para Motoring, Scuba Diving, Powered Rafting, Beach Running and talks by eminent ecologists on saving the coral reefs will be conducted.

This would be followed by the Ocean Sailing Leg onboard the yacht `Trishna' which has the unique distinction of sailing, around the world with an all Indian Army crew in 1985.

The `Trishna' will sail from Mumbai to Lakshadweep Islands and back via Goa and Cochin over a period of three weeks where the crew will also interact with the inhabitants of the Islands.

Spanning over six weeks, all events of this expedition will see the participation by over hundred all ranks of Indian Army who will interact with the people of Lakshadweep Islands, spreading awareness about the Army and the need to preserve the fragile ecology of their islands.

Bison Blue Waters Expedition is being seen as a big step by the Indian Army to help enhance maritime awareness within the Indian Army. (ANI)