Ormanjhi (Ranchi), May 15: The Cockerel Summer Adventure camp 2003 began today amid fanfare at the 67 Medical Regiment location.

The venue — called Basua Patra by locals — is an isolated place, which is about 33 km from the district headquarters on the Ranchi-Ramgarh Road. Basua Patra is surrounded with jungles and lake.

Long before the scheduled time of 6 am, the children, escorted by their parents, started trickling in. While the children squealed with excitement, their parents looked apprehensive.

“This is the first time my seven-year-old daughter is attending a camp. Though it is for only a week, but I feel a bit sad,” said Mrs Joshi, while her daughter, Shweta, chatted with the other children.

Little Siddharth looked around forlornly. When asked why he had come to the camp, the six-year-old said in broken English “To make friends.” “I have already made friends with a boy,” he added with a shy smile.

But not all were as inhibited as Siddharth. Some of the children were seen chasing their friends around the camp, while their parents exchanged notes.

“I have never left my little son alone. This the first time, But I am not afraid as he will be in the safe hands of the Army. I told my son not to cry after we leave. He is a brave boy,” said Roma Sinha with tears in her eye as she waved her seven-year-old son goodbye.

The children were divided into four groups immediately after their arrival at the camp. The officer-in-charge briefed them on the various events that they would take part in. This was followed by a sumptuous lunch.

In the afternoon, the children attended a practical class on hygiene and sanitation, water-borne disease, preparation of a kit to cure snake bite and a first aid box.

Classes over, it was time for fun and frolic. The kids took part in games like seven stones, cats and dogs and kho kho. The day ended with a live performance by band of the local Army units.

Camp chief Major B. Sharma said: “The aim of the camp is to give the children a glimpse of the thrill and adventure of Army life. Besides, we will like to instil the spirit of adventure and love for nature and outdoor activities in these children.”

“About 125 children in the age group 6 to 16 will participate in adventurous sports tomorrow. They will go for trekking, mountain climbing, para gliding, boat and tank rides. They will also learn archery,” he said.

We have decided to give them lessons on survival techniques. A number of cultural activities will also be organised at the camp,” he said.

“I loved my first day at the camp. I won the game of kho kho. A few of my school friends are here so I am not feeling lonely,” said Rohit.

Siddharth, too, made quite a few friends. “I am very happy here. I have already made six friends. I am looking forward to the paragliding event tomorrow. I have seen it on television. It looks exciting.”