India Scales New Heights: Joint Team from National Mountaineering Institutes Successfully Summits Highest Peaks in Pangong Tso Region.
Ladakh:
In a remarkable feat of endurance, skill, and teamwork, a joint expedition team comprising elite instructors from India’s three premier National Mountaineering Institutes has successfully summited Mt Merag-III (6,480 metres) and Mt Kangju Kangri (6,710 metres), the tallest peaks in the Pangong Tso region of the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The high-altitude expedition was flagged off on July 24, 2025, from Sonamarg, under the leadership of Colonel Hem Chandra Singh, Principal of the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam. The formidable team brought together seasoned mountaineers from JIM&WS, the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), Uttarkashi, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling—a rare collaboration of national calibre.
Team Members of the Historic Ascent:
- Sub Maj/Hony Lt (Retd) Rafiq Ahmad Malik – JIM&WS
- Hav Sajad Hussain – JIM&WS
- Nk Bharat Singh – JIM&WS
- Hav/NA Yogesh – JIM&WS
- Sub Maj Hajari Lal – NIM
- Nb Sub Bhupinder Singh – NIM
- Robin Gurung – HMI
- Zubin Rai – HMI
Facing some of the harshest alpine conditions—extreme cold, oxygen-thin air, and unpredictable weather—the climbers demonstrated unparalleled grit, technical excellence, and coordination. Their successful summit of the highest peaks in the Pangong Tso region is a defining moment in Indian mountaineering and a proud representation of the country’s growing presence in global adventure sports.
Symbol of National Pride and Adventure Spirit
The expedition represents more than just a physical achievement; it symbolizes the unity of India’s premier mountaineering institutions in pushing the frontiers of exploration and adventure. The climb also served as a platform to test advanced climbing techniques and survival strategies in high-altitude terrain, potentially setting the stage for future training and expeditions by defence and civilian teams alike.
“This is a landmark achievement that demonstrates the extraordinary synergy and capability of our mountaineering institutes. It adds a golden chapter to India’s mountaineering legacy,” said an official from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under which these institutes function.
Strategic Significance
Located near the Pangong Tso Lake—a region of both ecological significance and strategic importance—the successful ascent also highlights India’s growing familiarity and mastery over its high-altitude terrain. The expedition further strengthens national confidence in adventure operations in border zones and rugged mountainous areas.
Looking Ahead
With the successful conclusion of this expedition, the three institutes are expected to enhance joint training programs and continue fostering cross-institutional collaboration. Their combined knowledge base and experience now stand ready to inspire the next generation of Indian climbers and adventurers.
This achievement serves as a reminder that when determination, unity, and expertise come together, no peak is insurmountable.
