Demonstrating that the spirit of service, courage and operational excellence transcends every domain, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has achieved a major milestone in its high-altitude mountaineering journey with the successful ascent of Mount Mukut (7,045 metres) recently. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged in the 17-member expedition team at a ceremony in Dehradun, marking a significant step towards the force’s ambitious Mount Everest expedition planned for 2027.
The ceremony was attended by Additional Director General Indian Coast Guard Anand Prakash Badola, PTM, TM, and highlighted the exceptional determination, endurance and team spirit demonstrated by the personnel during one of the most demanding high-altitude expeditions in the Himalayas.
A MISSION OF ENDURANCE, DISCIPLINE AND PRECISION:
Conducted under the expert guidance of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, the Mount Mukut expedition represented Phase V and the culminating stage of an intensive 18-month preparatory training programme. The mission was designed to test the team’s physical conditioning, mental resilience, technical proficiency and ability to operate in extreme high-altitude conditions ahead of the ultimate objective of scaling Mount Everest during the Indian Coast Guard’s Swarnim Jayanti celebrations in 2027.
The expedition commenced on 15 September 2026. After sustained preparations and acclimatisation, the team established Base Camp-I on 1 October and subsequently advanced towards the summit. Negotiating challenging terrain and severe weather conditions, the mountaineers successfully reached the 7,045-metre summit on 7 October, completing a demanding mission that tested their endurance, resolve and operational preparedness.
CM DHAMI LAUDS THE SPIRIT OF COURAGE AND NATIONAL PRIDE:
Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami lauded the expedition members for their grit, determination and unwavering commitment, describing their achievement as a powerful embodiment of courage, perseverance and national pride. The successful ascent stands as a testament to the team’s disciplined preparation and collective resolve in overcoming formidable natural challenges.
ADG Anand Prakash Badola congratulated the team on its outstanding achievement, commending the personnel for their mental toughness, physical endurance and seamless coordination throughout the expedition. The accomplishment underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to fostering a culture of professionalism, resilience and mission-oriented excellence beyond its conventional maritime responsibilities.
EVEREST 2027: THE NEXT STRATEGIC MILESTONE:
With Mount Mukut successfully summited, the expedition marks a decisive milestone in the Indian Coast Guard’s preparations for its proposed Mount Everest mission in 2027. The operational experience gained during the climb—including exposure to extreme weather, high-altitude terrain, acclimatisation requirements and expedition logistics—will provide valuable inputs for the team’s final phase of preparation.
As the Indian Coast Guard advances towards its Swarnim Jayanti celebrations, the planned Everest expedition represents an ambitious demonstration of the force’s determination to push boundaries, build specialised capabilities and inspire a spirit of adventure among its personnel.
