India Flags-in Mount Everest & Kilimanjaro Expeditions
On July 17, 2025, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh flagged off two prestigious mountaineering expeditions, marking a significant milestone in India’s mountaineering history. The expeditions, to Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro, showcased India’s mountaineering excellence and adventure leadership across land, sea, and air.
The Mount Everest expedition marked a special occasion, as it commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM). Established in 1965, NIM is one of the premier mountaineering institutions in the country, dedicated to promoting mountaineering and adventure sports. The expedition was a testament to NIM’s commitment to excellence and its role in shaping India’s mountaineering landscape.
The Kilimanjaro expedition, on the other hand, featured a unique addition – a Divyangjan (differently-abled) climber, Uday Kumar. This remarkable feat demonstrated India’s inclusivity and commitment to promoting adventure sports for all. Uday Kumar’s participation was a shining example of the country’s efforts to break barriers and showcase the capabilities of people with disabilities.
The expeditions were flagged off by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who expressed his pride in India’s mountaineering achievements and hailed the teams for their dedication and hard work. The Defence Secretary also acknowledged the importance of mountaineering in promoting national pride, national security, and national unity.
The Mount Everest expedition, led by NIM’s Director-General, Col. Vivek Trivedi, features a team of experienced mountaineers and guides. The team will attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, and will also conduct various scientific experiments and surveys during their climb. The expedition aims to promote scientific research, adventure sports, and environmental conservation, while also showcasing India’s mountaineering prowess.
The Kilimanjaro expedition, led by renowned mountaineer and NIM’s Instructor, Col. Rakesh Kumar, features a team of 12 members, including Uday Kumar. The team will attempt to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, and will conduct various activities, including trekking, camping, and scientific experiments. The expedition aims to promote adventure sports, cultural exchange, and environmental conservation, while also showcasing India’s mountaineering excellence.
Both expeditions are significant not only for their mountaineering feats but also for the values they promote – teamwork, discipline, and a sense of adventure. They demonstrate India’s commitment to promoting adventure sports, environmental conservation, and national pride, while also showcasing the country’s mountaineering excellence and adventure leadership.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including senior officials from the Defence Ministry, NIM, and other organizations. The ceremony was marked by a sense of excitement and enthusiasm, as the teams prepared to embark on their challenging journeys.
In conclusion, the Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro expeditions are a testament to India’s mountaineering excellence and adventure leadership. They demonstrate the country’s commitment to promoting adventure sports, environmental conservation, and national pride, while also showcasing the capabilities of its mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts. As the teams embark on their challenging journeys, they will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of mountaineers and adventure seekers in India and around the world.
Source: https://www.refersms.com/mount-everest-kilimanjaro-expeditions/
