Historic Divyangjan Expedition to Hoist Largest Indian Flag on Mt. Kilimanjaro
First Such Mission to hoist the largest Indian flag atop the highest peak of African Continent
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence, is undertaking a Divyangjan expedition from Kanchenjunga National Park to Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak of the African continent, from 02 to 20 August 2024. The expedition was flagged off by Dipti Mohil Chawia, Additional Secretary, MoD, in New Delhi on 30 July 2024.
The expedition team includes Uday Kumar, a Divyangjan with 91% above-knee amputation, Air Warrior and Principal HMI Gp Capt Jai Kishan, Capt Shruti S. Chanaveeragoudra, Sub Mahendra Kumar Yadav, Pawel Sharma, and Sulaxchana Tamang. Uday Kumar has already climbed Mt. Rthenock (16,500 ft) in the Kanchenjunga National Park, West Sikkim, setting an inspiring precedent for the upcoming challenges.
To commemorate the 78th Independence Day, a 7,800-square-foot national flag will be displayed during the expedition, showcasing India's pride and unity. The expedition team will create history as the first Divyangjan Expedition to hoist the largest Indian flag atop Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. This expedition is a testament to the strength, determination, and unity of the Indian people. It aims to inspire the youth, Divyangjan, and underprivileged people to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.
