India Flags-in Mount Everest & Kilimanjaro Expeditions
On July 17, 2025, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh flagged off two historic mountaineering expeditions to Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro, marking a significant milestone in India’s adventure journey. The Everest mission celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, while the Kilimanjaro team featured a remarkable Divyangjan climber, Uday Kumar. These expeditions showcased India’s mountaineering excellence and adventure leadership across land, sea, and air.
The Everest expedition, led by Colonel Vivek Kumar, was the first to be flagged off. This team of 14 mountaineers, including 5 instructors from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, aimed to conquer the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, standing tall at 8,848 meters. The team was equipped with state-of-the-art gear and trained to tackle the treacherous terrain and harsh weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the Kilimanjaro expedition, led by Colonel Rakesh Kumar, consisted of 12 participants, including Uday Kumar, a Divyangjan climber who has already conquered several peaks in India and abroad. Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest peak in Africa, standing at 5,895 meters. This expedition aimed to promote adventure tourism and showcase India’s capabilities in mountaineering.
The Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, flagged off both expeditions at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarakhand. In his address, he emphasized the importance of mountaineering in promoting national pride, camaraderie, and teamwork. He also stressed the need for adventure tourism to boost the country’s economy and promote India as a preferred destination for adventure enthusiasts.
The Everest mission is a significant milestone for the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, which has been instrumental in promoting mountaineering in India since its inception in 1965. The institute has produced many renowned mountaineers, including several who have successfully climbed Mount Everest. This expedition marks the institute’s 60th anniversary, and it is expected to be a defining moment in its history.
The Kilimanjaro expedition, featuring Uday Kumar, is a testament to India’s commitment to promoting accessibility and inclusivity in adventure tourism. Uday Kumar, who has been an inspiration to many, is a shining example of determination and perseverance. His participation in the expedition is expected to inspire others to take up adventure sports, regardless of their physical abilities.
The expeditions were made possible with the support of several organizations, including the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, the Indian Army, and the Ministry of Defence. The teams were equipped with high-quality gear and received extensive training to ensure their safety and success.
The success of these expeditions is a significant boost to India’s mountaineering reputation and its adventure tourism industry. It demonstrates India’s capabilities in mountaineering and its commitment to promoting adventure tourism. These expeditions are expected to attract international attention and inspire adventure enthusiasts from around the world to explore India’s mountains.
In conclusion, the flag-in ceremonies for the Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro expeditions marked a significant milestone in India’s mountaineering journey. These expeditions showcased India’s mountaineering excellence and adventure leadership, while promoting national pride and inclusivity. As India continues to push the boundaries of adventure tourism, these expeditions serve as a testament to the country’s capabilities and its commitment to promoting adventure sports.
Source:
https://www.refersms.com/mount-everest-kilimanjaro-expeditions/
