India Flags-in Mount Everest & Kilimanjaro Expeditions
On July 17, 2025, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh flagged off two prestigious mountaineering expeditions, one to Mount Everest and the other to Kilimanjaro, marking a significant milestone in India’s mountaineering history. The expeditions showcased India’s excellence in mountaineering and adventure leadership, demonstrating the country’s capabilities across land, sea, and air.
The Everest expedition was particularly significant as it marked the 60th anniversary of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), one of India’s premier mountaineering institutions. The NIM was established in 1965 with the aim of promoting mountaineering and adventure sports in the country. Over the years, the institute has produced some of India’s most accomplished mountaineers and has been at the forefront of promoting mountaineering in the country.
The Kilimanjaro expedition, on the other hand, featured a remarkable team member in Uday Kumar, a Divyangjan (physically challenged) climber who has been an inspiration to many with his determination and courage. Uday’s participation in the expedition was a testament to India’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in adventure sports.
The Mount Everest expedition team, comprising 22 members, including experienced mountaineers and NIM instructors, was led by renowned mountaineer and NIM Director, Colonel H.S. Chauhan. The team was tasked with climbing the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,848 meters), via the South Col route. The expedition aimed to promote Indian mountaineering and to conduct scientific research on the effects of high-altitude climbing on the human body.
The Kilimanjaro expedition team, consisting of 15 members, including Uday Kumar, was led by experienced mountaineer and adventure leader, Captain Rohan Kumar. The team was tasked with climbing Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters), via the Marangu route. The expedition aimed to promote adventure tourism in Africa and to highlight India’s potential as a major player in the global adventure tourism industry.
The flag-off ceremony for both expeditions was attended by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who lauded the teams for their dedication and hard work. “The Nehru Institute of Mountaineering has a rich history of producing accomplished mountaineers, and this expedition is a testament to their excellence,” he said. “The inclusion of Uday Kumar in the Kilimanjaro expedition is a shining example of India’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in adventure sports.”
The expeditions were supported by the Indian Ministry of Defence, the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, and various corporate sponsors. The teams were equipped with state-of-the-art gear and equipment, and were provided with extensive training and support before embarking on their journeys.
The Mount Everest expedition was expected to take around 60 days to complete, while the Kilimanjaro expedition was expected to take around 12 days. Both teams were equipped with satellite communication devices and GPS tracking systems to ensure their safety and to facilitate real-time updates to their families and followers.
The success of these expeditions will not only boost India’s reputation as a major player in the global mountaineering community but also promote adventure tourism in the country. With its diverse geography and rich cultural heritage, India has immense potential to attract adventure seekers from around the world.
In conclusion, the flag-off of the Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro expeditions is a significant milestone in India’s mountaineering history, showcasing the country’s excellence in mountaineering and adventure leadership. The participation of Uday Kumar in the Kilimanjaro expedition is a shining example of India’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in adventure sports. As the teams embark on their journeys, they will not only conquer some of the world’s most iconic peaks but also inspire countless others to take up adventure sports and to explore the great outdoors.
Source: https://www.refersms.com/mount-everest-kilimanjaro-expeditions/
