Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomes back the expedition to Mt Kun by NIMAS team

New Delhi, 20 September (H.S): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed back the team of National Institute of Mountaineering & Allied Sports (NIMAS) Dirang of Arunachal Pradesh here today, which completed a mountaineering expedition to Mount Kun (7,077 metres). The team, led by Institute Director Colonel Sarfraz Singh, conducted the expedition to the Nun-Kun Mountain Massif which is the highest feature of Zanskar ranges located in Kargil.

Congratulating NIMAS for successfully completing the task in tough weather conditions amid the COVID-19 restrictions, the Defence Minister pointed out such expeditions would promote the spirit of adventure and patriotism among the youth. He said that such events can play an important role in strengthening the defence and security of the country. ?Through such events, we can learn more about border security and its challenges. Our Army has given a lot of encouragement to such activities,? Singh said.

He stressed upon the need to encourage such activities and suggested increased involvement of general public as it can play a major role in promoting tourism, employment, knowledge gathering and bolstering economy. He assured all possible support of the Government in these efforts.

Rajnath Singh also lauded NIMAS for providing training in adventure courses in all three fields i.e., land, air and water. The institute is a shining example of unity and integrity, he said. He also commended NIMAS for recently conducting a Mountain Terrain Biking Expedition in Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore. Singh said such events not only promote sportsmanship, but also strengthen India?s ties with friendly countries.

On this occasion, the Minister also handed over certificates of participation to the members of the team and extended his best wishes.

The expedition was conducted between July 15, 2021 and August 10, 2021. The peak is technically difficult and involves a challenging climb. The team opened the entire route on its own without taking the help of sherpas and mountain guides.

During the expedition, a record number of 16 mountaineers – nine Army personnel and seven local youth of Arunachal Pradesh – scaled the mountain. The summiting, which coincided with ?Kargil Vijay Diwas? (26th July) was part of ?Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav? being celebrated across the country to commemorate 75th year of Independence. The expedition was aimed at inculcating the spirit of patriotism, courage & adventure and promoting ?Fit India Movement?. NIMAS is a premier mountaineering institute functioning under the aegis of Ministry of Defence. Singh is its President and Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh is the Vice President.