MOUNT ACONCAGUA
- In February 2026, India sent a mountaineering team to climb Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside Asia.
- The expedition was flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
- This mission highlights India’s growing focus on adventure sports, leadership training, and high-altitude mountaineering.
ABOUT MT. ACONCAGUA
- Located in: Argentina
- Mountain Range: Andes (Principal Cordillera)
- Height: 6,962 metres
- Highest peak in South America
- Highest peak in the Western Hemisphere
- Highest mountain outside Asia
- Volcanic origin (currently inactive)
Climbing Mount Aconcagua is considered one of the major global mountaineering challenges.
ORGANISING INSTITUTES
The expedition is a joint effort of:
- Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM)
- Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM&WS)
These are premier mountaineering training institutes of India.
They train:
- Civilians
- Armed forces personnel
- Adventure enthusiasts
They provide training in:
- Snowcraft
- Survival skills
- High-altitude climbing
- Leadership development
This collaboration reflects India’s strong training system in adventure and defence-related skills.
TEAM MEMBERS
- The six-member expedition team
- The expedition began on 6 February 2026 and is expected to conclude by the end of the month.
- All members have experience in:
- High-altitude expeditions
- Snow operations
- Survival training
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE EXPEDITION
- Demonstrates India’s growing presence in global mountaineering.
- Promotes youth development and leadership training.
- Enhances physical endurance and discipline.
- Supports defence preparedness.
- Strengthens India’s international image in adventure sports.
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