Itanagar, Apr 7: State Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Tuesday visited the National Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (NIMAS) at Dirang in West Kameng district, where he reviewed the institute’s ongoing initiatives and future plans.
Interacting with administrative officers and trainers, the Governor appreciated their dedication and professionalism, stating that NIMAS has the potential to achieve far greater prominence. He emphasized the need for the institute to aim for a higher national and international stature, placing Arunachal Pradesh firmly on the global mountaineering map.
Highlighting the state’s achievements, he noted that Arunachal Pradesh has already produced 16 Everest summiteers and encouraged NIMAS to build on this success by opening its doors to mountaineering enthusiasts from across the country. He also suggested exploring opportunities for international participation in expeditions, with due approval from the Government of India.
The Governor urged the institute to organize expeditions to the many unexplored peaks in Arunachal Pradesh while continuing participation in iconic challenges such as Mount Everest. He said such initiatives would boost adventure tourism and showcase the state’s vast natural potential.
During the visit, Officer-in-Charge Mohan Prasad briefed the Governor on the institute’s training programmes, achievements, and ongoing infrastructure development. He informed that NIMAS offers diverse courses including mountaineering, mountain terrain biking, scuba diving, white water rafting, beginner kayaking, paragliding, and paramotoring.
Established in 2012 through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Defence, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and Team NIMAS, the institute has grown into a premier centre for adventure and outdoor training in the country.