What happened
On 25 September 2026, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh flagged in the First Ascent Mountaineering Expedition at Kartavya Bhavan-2, New Delhi. The team climbed 20 previously unclimbed peaks above 6,000 metres in Ladakh in just 23 days. These are the first recorded summits of these peaks in the Chamser-Lungser, Gyama Nala and Chokula areas of the Ladakh Range.
The 20-member team came from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Dirang, and was led by Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was also present.
Background
NIMAS at Dirang (West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh) is a mountaineering and adventure-sports institute under the Ministry of Defence. The expedition aimed to promote high-altitude exploration and inspire young climbers. Rajnath Singh said the climbs set new benchmarks and showed India's strength in high-altitude mountaineering.
Why it matters for exams
Defence ministry events, adventure institutes and 'first-ever' records are favourites in CDS, NDA, AFCAT, CAPF and SSC GK. The number of peaks and the institute's location are likely MCQ facts.
Key facts for exams
- Feat: 20 unclimbed peaks above 6,000 m in 23 days
- Areas: Chamser-Lungser, Gyama Nala, Chokula (Ladakh Range)
- Team leader: Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal
- NIMAS: Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh; under the Ministry of Defence
- Raksha Mantri: Rajnath Singh; Defence Secretary: Rajesh Kumar Singh
- Other mountaineering institutes: HMI Darjeeling, NIM Uttarkashi, JIM&WS Pahalgam
Practice MCQs
How many unclimbed peaks did the NIMAS First Ascent Expedition summit in Ladakh?
(A) 10
(B) 15
(C) 20
(D) 25Answer: (C) – 20 peaks above 6,000 m in 23 days.
Where is NIMAS located?
(A) Uttarkashi
(B) Darjeeling
(C) Dirang
(D) ManaliAnswer: (C) – NIMAS is at Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh.
Who led the First Ascent Mountaineering Expedition?
(A) Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal
(B) Col I.S. Thapa
(C) Maj Gen Rajesh Kumar
(D) Col Ashok AbbeyAnswer: (A) – The PIB release names Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal.