DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
jammu, Sept 20
An 18-member cycling team from the Lightning Streaks Regiment of Tiger Division, Jammu, has embarked on an ambitious journey to promote border tourism by cycling to Komic, the world’s highest village connected by a motorable road. Situated in Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of 15,100 feet, Komic represents one of the most extreme and picturesque destinations in the country.
The cycling expedition, named Tiger Prowl Cycling Expedition 2024, spans from Jammu to Komic via Yol, Himachal Pradesh, covering approximately 988 kilometers. The route poses significant challenges due to harsh weather conditions, off-road terrains, and landslide-prone areas. Despite these obstacles, the expedition underscores the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Indian Army. The event was flagged off by Major General Mukesh Bhanwala, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Tiger Division, Jammu, on 20 September 2024.
Throughout the journey, the cycling team will traverse 26 border villages, including five Vibrant Villages declared by the Government of India and the Himachal Pradesh State Government. These villages include Chitkul, Chango, Pooh, Leo, and Nako. The team will also pass through Hurling, Tabo, and Kaza, culminating their expedition in Kaza on 16 October 2024.
The route is renowned for its rugged beauty and treacherous conditions, making it one of the most challenging cycling routes in the world. Along the way, participants will experience the extremes of high-altitude weather and tough off-road terrain, offering them a unique adventure and testing their physical endurance. During the expedition, the team will engage with local communities by distributing books and pamphlets to raise awareness about various Indian Army recruitment initiatives, including the Agnipath Scheme, Officer Entry Schemes, and Girl Child Entry into Sainik Schools, Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehradun, and the Officers Training Academy, Chennai. This initiative aims to inspire young individuals in these remote areas to consider joining the Indian Armed Forces.
In addition to their community outreach, the cyclists will also meet with ex-servicemen, Veer Naris (war widows), and gallantry award winners along the route. These interactions serve to strengthen the bond between the Indian Army and the local populace, reflecting the Army’s commitment to national integration and the development of border areas. The Tiger Prowl Cycling Expedition not only highlights the Army’s focus on physical endurance and esprit-de-corps but also promotes tourism in India’s remote border regions. By interacting with local communities and showcasing the challenges of high-altitude terrains, the expedition contributes to fostering stronger ties between the Army and the civilian population.
This initiative also underscores the Indian Army’s dedication to border development and tourism promotion, in alignment with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Through this expedition, the Indian Army demonstrates its unwavering commitment to both national security and fostering community relationships in remote border regions.
