In run-up to 78^th Independence Day, the Divyangjan expedition team of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), under the aegis of Ministry of Defence, has unfurled 7800 sq ft Indian national flag atop Uhuru Summit of Kilimanjaro, the highest peak of African continent.

The team led by Group Captain Jai Kishan, including Divyang Shri Uday Kumar and others undertook Mission Kanchanjanga National Park to Mt Kilimanjaro (Mission K2K) to script another historic achievement, as for the first time an amputee climber successfully completed the endeavor using crutches.

The team started their journey from the base camp, and reached Kibu Hut, situated at an altitude of 15500  feet on August 7, 2024, where they proudly displayed the national flag, measuring 7,800 square feet, with the aid of ropes, ground nets  and anchors.

Taking into account the weather conditions and the medical fitness of all members, the team  began their ascent to Uhuru Peak at 0300 hours on August 8. After a grueling 10-hour climbing through treacherous terrain characterized by loose scree, a steep climb of 85 degree gradient and alpine desert, they successfully reached the summit of Uhuru Peak at 1300 hours, standing at an altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) and unfurled the 7800 sq ft Indian national flag over the summit of Uhuru Peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The historic expedition serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of what can be achieved through perseverance and support. It aims to inspire future generations of Divyangjan and other underprivileged youth to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.

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ABB/Anand