• In a major achievement for Indian mountaineering and military excellence, an expedition team from the Eastern Command of the Indian Army has successfully scaled Mount Kangto (7,042 metres) 
  • It is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh. 
• This is the first recorded successful ascent of the peak, making the feat historically significant for the country and the mountaineering fraternity.
• The 18-member team was flagged off on November 3 from a forward base under the Gajraj Corps. 
• After weeks of climbing through the challenging stretch of the Kameng Himalayas, they reached the summit through a highly technical southern route. 
• The climb was considered formidable because of sub-zero temperatures, steep ice walls, deep crevasses and extremely low oxygen levels at high altitude.
• Mount Kangto is revered as a geographical and environmental sentinel for Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Its slopes mark the upper reaches of the Kameng region and form part of the remote Eastern Himalayan chain near the India-China border. 
• Because of its difficult terrain and harsh conditions, the mountain has remained unclimbed for decades, despite several attempted expeditions.
• The team was formally honoured during the flag-in ceremony by Lt General R.C. Tiwari, Army Commander, Eastern Command. 
• This expedition also underscores the strategic importance of familiarity with extreme terrain in the eastern border belt. 
• Along with the cultural and ecological importance of the Eastern Himalayas, this success has further strengthened India’s presence in one of its most inaccessible regions.

Exam Hook: Prelims One-Liners

• Mount Kangto is the highest peak of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Located in the Kameng Himalayas, near the India–China boundary.
• Climbed by Indian Army Eastern Command–first recorded ascent.

Statement MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Mount Kangto:

1. It is located in the Kameng Himalaya region of Arunachal Pradesh.
   
2. The Indian Army recently became the first to successfully scale it.
   
3. Mount Kangto lies on the border between India and Nepal.
   

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

One-line wrap:

The Indian Army’s first successful ascent of Mount Kangto marks a milestone in high-altitude exploration and strategic capability in Arunachal Pradesh.

SOURCE