Team of differently-abled mountaineers of HMI displays National flag at Mt Kilamanjaro

New Delhi [India] August 10 (ANI): A team of differently-abled mountaineers from Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) displayed a 7,8000 sq ft Indian national flag at Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest peak of the African continent, the institute said in a press release.

The team of differently-abled mountaineers began their expedition from Kanchenjunga National Park on August 4.

The team led by Group Captain Jai Kishan, including Mr. Uday Kumar [Divyangjan], Capt. Shruti, Sub Mahendra Kumar Yadav, Mr. Pawel Sharma, and Miss Sulaxchana Tamang, reached Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro on Thursday.

The Institute, in the press release, said, “After a gruelling 10-hour climb through treacherous terrain, including loose scree, an 85-degree gradient, and an alpine desert, the team achieved their goal. At 1300 hours, they reached the summit of Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), and once again displayed the 7,800 sq ft Indian national flag atop Kilimanjaro.”

Group Captain Jai Kishan hailed this expedition as a historic achievement, particularly highlighting the courage and determination of Uday Kumar, an amputee climber who successfully completed the endeavour using crutches–a first in the history of mountaineering.

As HMI mentioned in the press release the expedition was held to celebrate the 78th Independence Day.

In the press release, HMI, operating under the Ministry of Defence, affirmed its commitment to showcasing the achievements and potential of Divyangjan.

“This expedition not only inspires the nation but also sends a powerful message to the world, setting new milestones in aero, land, and water sports,” the institute said.

Earlier on August 7, upon reaching Kibo Hut, located at an altitude of 15,500 feet, the team proudly displayed a massive 7,800-square-foot Indian national flag. This monumental task was accomplished using ropes, ground nets, and anchors, marking a significant moment of pride and patriotism.