Anurag Garg, ADG BSF HQ, handing over the Indian flag to the leader of the BSF all-women mountaineering team. (Photo: BSF)
New Delhi: The Border Security Force is embarking on its first-ever all-women mountaineering expedition to Mount Mukut East, standing at a formidable 7,130 metres (23,392 feet) in the Himalayas. Anurag Garg, IPS, additional director general from BSF Headquarters in New Delhi, officially launched the campaign on Monday. Mount Mukut, situated in East Garhwal, Uttarakhand, is renowned as one of the Himalayas’ most challenging peaks.
The expedition aims to plant both the Indian and BSF flags atop Mount Mukut East, while promoting women’s empowerment and championing the causes of “Swachh Bharat, Swachh Himalaya” (clean India, clean Himalayas) and “Hum Fit Toh India Fit” (if we are fit, India is fit).
For the BSF personnel, known as “Seema Prahari” (border sentinels), the pursuit of adventure and conquering the unknown has always been part and parcel of their daily lives. Mountaineering offers a unique challenge that fosters essential qualities such as leadership, camaraderie, discipline, responsibility, self-assurance, and the ability to perform efficiently in extreme weather conditions.
This groundbreaking expedition, a first among central armed police forces (CAPFs), comprises 12 determined women climbers. Their unwavering spirit and resolve are expected not only to lead them to victory but also to underscore the crucial role of women in realizing the vision of a more empowered and developed India, serving as an inspiration to the nation’s youth.
In line with the “Swachh Bharat Mission” (Clean India Mission), the team will collect rubbish from high-altitude camps between 19,000 and 23,392 feet, bringing it down to the roadside and ultimately to Joshimath for proper disposal. This endeavour aims to raise awareness among other mountaineers and trekkers about environmental conservation, promoting the “Swachh Bharat, Swachh Himalaya” and “Hum Fit Toh India Fit” campaigns as part of the fight against global warming.
