Army flags off Tiger Prowl Cycling Expedition 2024 from Jammu to Himachal Pradesh

Jammu, Sep 20: An 18-member Army team of Lightning Streaks Regiment of Tiger Division has set out to establish a record of its own, undertaking a cycling expedition to the world’s highest village connected by a motorable road, Komic in Himachal Pradesh situated at an altitude of 15,100 feet.

A defence spokesperson in a statement said that the Tiger Prowl Cycling Expedition 2024 from Jammu to Komic, Himachal Pradesh via Yol exemplifies the indomitable spirit and resilience of Indian Army.

He said the expedition consisting of 18-members was flagged off by Major General Mukesh Bhanwala, General Officer Commanding, Tiger Division, Jammu on 20 September 2024. The team will navigate challenging route and varying weather conditions throughout Himachal Pradesh covering approximately 988 kms with majority of it being off road.

This expedition route is considered one of the most treacherous routes in the world by virtue of weather extremities and landslide prone areas, offering the unique adventurous experience for the participants. The expedition will touch base with 26 border villages including five Vibrant Villages as declared by Government of India and Himachal Pradesh State Government. The cycling team will traverse through the Vibrant Villages of Chitkul, Chango, Pooh, Leo and Nako and will also pass through Hurling, Tabo and Kaza, culminating their expedition in Kaza on 16 Oct 2024, the statement said.

As per the statement, the expedition team will distribute books and pamphlets enroute to raise awareness about the Agnipath scheme, Officer Entry Schemes and Girl Child Entry in Sainik Schools, Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehradun and Officers Training Academy, Chennai. The cyclists will also meet ex-servicemen, veer naris widows and gallantry award winners enroute. As they traverse challenging terrain and vibrant villages, the expedition embodies the ethos of service and camaraderie that defines the Indian Army and showcases their physical endurance and espirit-de-corps.

In addition, interaction with locals will also strengthen the bond between the armed forces and the civil populace, reflecting a dedication to national integration and border development, highlighting Indian Army’s commitment to fostering community ties and promoting tourism in border areas, the statement added.