Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh today flagged in the First Ascent Mountaineering Expedition, which scripted history by successfully summiting 20 previously unclimbed peaks above 6,000 metres in Ladakh within 23 days.
The expedition marks the first recorded ascents of 20 unclimbed peaks in the Chamser-Lungser, Gyama Nala and Chokula areas of the Ladakh Range. The challenging expedition was undertaken by a team of 20 highly skilled mountaineers from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Dirang, led by Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal.
Interacting with the expedition team, the Defence Minister commended the climbers for their courage, determination, technical expertise and endurance in accomplishing the historic feat. He described the expedition as a significant demonstration of India’s mountaineering capabilities and leadership in adventure sports.
Describing the mountaineers as a source of inspiration for the youth, Shri Rajnath Singh said that their successful ascents had set new benchmarks in high-altitude mountaineering and would encourage young mountaineers across the country to pursue adventure, exploration and excellence.
The expedition showcased meticulous planning, advanced technical skills, physical endurance and exceptional teamwork. The successful mission also demonstrated India’s growing capabilities in high-altitude mountaineering and further strengthened the country’s presence on the global mountaineering map.
The expedition was undertaken with the objective of promoting a spirit of adventure and exploration in the high-altitude frontiers, while inspiring future generations to take up mountaineering and adventure sports.
Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials of the Ministry of Defence were also present at the flag-in ceremony held at Kartavya Bhavan-2, New Delhi.
The successful culmination of the expedition stands as a testament to the spirit of exploration, perseverance and teamwork, while marking a significant milestone in India’s high-altitude mountaineering endeavours.
