PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 7: Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF), in collaboration with the Indian Army and the Ministry of Tourism, successfully concluded the ‘Fit@50+ Summits and Steering Wheels’ expedition on October 28.
Led by renowned mountaineer Bachendri Pal, the 18-day Himalayan adventure celebrated the courage and determination of women aged 50 and above.
The expedition took place from Dirang to Kaziranga National Park. The expedition, in collaboration with the Indian Army, Ministry of Tourism, and other partners, aimed to inspire women above the age of 50 to embrace adventure and wellness.
This expedition is part of Tata Steel and TSAF’s commitment to women empowerment, community health and fitness.
The team consisted entirely of women, with the most senior member being 80 years old.
The expedition is the second in a series of initiatives aimed at raising awareness, following the Trans Himalayan Expedition in 2022.
Veteran mountaineer Bachendri Pal, during her interaction with newly recruited female forest guards at Kaziranga National Park, emphasized the importance of fulfilling one’s duty towards nature without any gender biases.
“The mountains do not distinguish between men and women; therefore, one must fulfil their duty towards nature without any gender biases,” said veteran mountaineer Bachendri Pal during her interaction with the newly recruited female forest guards at Kaziranga National Park
Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to transform rural areas into vibrant villages and promote eco-tourism, this expedition was part of the border tourism concept. Inspired by the Fit India Movement, Bachendri Pal aimed to promote wellness among women above the age of 50.
The team accomplished a major milestone by reaching an altitude of 10,300 feet during their inaugural major ascent. Along their journey, they visited the Dirang Monastery, received blessings from Head Lama Rinpoche, and experienced the season’s first snowfall at Jaswant Garh Memorial and Sela Pass en route to Tawang.
In Tawang, the team explored the historic Bumla Pass, engaged with the local community, and visited the captivating Sangetsar Tso (Madhuri Lake). They also ventured to the Zemithang Mountains, Gori Chen Glacier, Shoktsen Village and Gorsam Chorten.
Continuing their remarkable journey, they ventured along Bailey’s Trail at 16,500 feet, passing through Mago, Zithang, Mirathang, and eventually reaching the glacier. The expedition concluded with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kaziranga National Park in Assam, where they explored the park and visited the Anti-Poaching camp at Bandardubi.
This extraordinary expedition showcased the spirit of exploration, resilience and the indomitable human will. It celebrated womanhood, shattered stereotypes, and created unforgettable memories.
