How mountaineering expeditions play crucial role in mountain warfare training

FOR ME, MOUNTAINEERING is not just a sport but a way of life. It is a journey of perseverance, humility and self-discovery. Over the last 20 years, I have had the privilege of scaling over 70 peaks, including Mount Everest, which I climbed thrice. I have also scaled the highest peaks of all seven continents.

One of the most vivid and terrifying moments in my mountaineering journey occurred during my first expedition to Mount Everest in 2012. At the South Col, the final camp at 8,000m, we found ourselves trapped in a relentless snow blizzard. The wind roared at extremely high speeds, making it impossible to attempt the summit that night. After much deliberation, we decided to wait it out.

The next morning we received the devastating news that two or three groups had pushed for the summit during the night. Tragically, at least six climbers lost their lives, and many others suffered severe frostbite. That experience taught me one of the most crucial lessons in mountaineering, and in life: the value of patience. The mountains demand respect, and sometimes the wisest decision is to wait, even when the summit feels within reach.

Another unforgettable experience was during my third expedition to Mount Everest in 2015. We were navigating through the Khumbu Glacier when a deadly earthquake struck Nepal. The ground beneath us trembled violently, and avalanches roared down the surrounding peaks. It was sheer luck―and perhaps the grace of the mountains―that we survived.

As we made our way back to the base camp, the scene was devastating. More than 18 lives were lost, and over 80 people were injured. The air was filled with panic and sorrow. Our tents were torn but remained grounded, thanks to the weight of supplies, rations, medicines and extra tents. These resources became lifelines for the injured and stranded climbers.

For the next 15 days, we transformed the base camp into a makeshift rescue centre. We set up a langar to feed everyone, tended to the injured and provided whatever assistance we could. When the chaos settled, we took it upon ourselves to clean up the base camp, ensuring it was left better than we found it. This harrowing experience taught me the true meaning of teamwork, selflessness and leadership. It reinforced my belief that in moments of crisis, it is not just about survival but about stepping up, helping others and fulfilling your duty with courage and compassion.

Another remarkable experience was during the ‘Mission Har Shikhar Tiranga’ expedition. Scaling the highest points of all 28 Indian states was as much about physical endurance as it was about navigating the diverse terrain and cultures of our incredible country.

Mountaineering expeditions play a crucial role in mountain warfare training. They prepare individuals to endure and operate effectively in some of the harshest and most unforgiving environments on earth. The challenges faced during such expeditions mirror the conditions encountered in mountain warfare, making them invaluable for building physical and mental resilience. Expeditions train soldiers to navigate treacherous terrain and carry out operations with limited resources. They instil discipline, enhance problem-solving skills under pressure and foster teamwork, all of which are essential for survival and success in combat situations.

Moreover, mountaineering teaches patience, decision-making and the ability to assess risks in real-time, which are critical in high-stakes scenarios. These expeditions also help develop technical skills such as rope handling, rescue operations and logistical planning, all of which directly contribute to operational readiness in mountain warfare.

Dominating heights is the most critical aspect of mountain warfare, because controlling the high ground provides a tactical advantage that cannot be overstated. From a military perspective, it allows you to monitor enemy movements, secure supply routes and dominate the battlefield with greater visibility and range.

In mountaineering, we often say, “The higher you are, the better your perspective.” This holds in warfare as well. Having the higher ground means not only better lines of sight but also greater control over the terrain, making it exponentially harder for adversaries to attack or advance. Additionally, the harsh conditions at higher altitude favour those who are acclimatised and well-positioned. For a mountaineer-turned soldier, controlling the heights means physical superiority and also psychological dominance over the adversary.

The gear we use today for expeditions in the Army is a game-changer compared with what we had earlier. Modern skis and snow scooters allow us to move across snowy terrain far more efficiently. Clothing, too, has evolved significantly. Today, we use lightweight, multi-layered gear that keeps us warm without being bulky or restrictive. Back in the day, we relied on heavy woollens and thick jackets which, while functional, were cumbersome and not always sufficient against extreme cold.

When it comes to navigation and surveillance, we now have GPS devices, satellite communication and hi-tech surveillance equipment that make navigation precise and reliable. In contrast, earlier, we relied entirely on maps, compasses and instincts. Communication was also a huge challenge. There were no satellite phones or radios to call for help or coordinate operations.

There is no doubt that today’s technology has made things faster and safer, but at the end of the day, the mountains still demand the same discipline, teamwork and respect. Merging technology with mountaineering is crucial as it makes operations in high-altitude terrain safer and more efficient. Tools like GPS, drones and satellite communication have transformed navigation, surveillance and coordination, giving a tactical edge. Advanced gear and weather prediction help us adapt to harsh conditions, while lightweight equipment reduces physical strain. Technology does not replace the skills or grit of soldiers but enhances them, allowing us to respond faster, stay safer, and operate more effectively.

Colonel Jamwal is the first Indian to climb seven summits―highest peaks of the seven continents.