Pune, February 16, 2025

Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering (GGIM) marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 10th anniversary with a grand event held at Modern College’s Auditorium in Pune. The occasion brought together esteemed dignitaries, mountaineering veterans, and adventure enthusiasts to honor a decade of relentless efforts in promoting mountaineering and adventure education.

Hon. Muralidhar Mohol, Member of Parliament, Pune, and Minister of State graced the event for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, as the Chief Guest. The Guest of Honor was Vivek Phansalkar, Commissioner of Mumbai Police. Other distinguished guests included Jagadish Kadam (Industrialist), Vijay Joshi (Director, Cubix Microsystems and Director, GGIM), Manish Sabade (Director, Guardian Corporation), Air Marshal (Rtd.) Bhushan Gokhale, Brigadier (Rtd.) Ashok Abbey, Col. Anshuman Bhadoria (Principal, NIM), Col. Hemchandra Singh (Principal, Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering), Wing Commander Devidatta Panda, Col. (Rtd.) Girijashankar Mungali (Head, Sanskriti School, Pune), Pramod Chaudhari (Founder-Chairman, Praj Industries Ltd.), Anand Palande (Founder-Trustee, Giripremi), Ushaprabha Page (Founder-Trustee, Giripremi), Jayant Tulpule (President, Giripremi), Keshab Paudial (Head, Peak Promotions, Nepal), and Khemraj Thakur (Mountaineer and Entrepreneur, Manali).

The celebrations commenced with a captivating documentary video showcasing GGIM’s decade-long journey, highlighting its significant contributions to mountaineering and adventure education in India. A major highlight of the evening was the launch of GGIM’s first-ever Mountaineering Handbook, a comprehensive guide designed to educate and inspire future mountaineers.

As part of the ceremony, GGIM felicitated outstanding students who have excelled in various courses such as Avhaan Nirmaan Udaan (ANU), Diploma in Mountaineering and Allied Sports, and other specialized training programs. The honorees ranged from young students to professionals who rekindled their passion for mountaineering through GGIM’s structured training.

Hon. Muralidhar Mohol lauded GGIM’s efforts, stating, “It is a proud moment for all Punekars that an institution of this stature has been established in Pune, making a global impact in adventure education. As an MP, I proudly extend my full support to GGIM. Pune is now a capital of adventure, home to 20 Everesteers, 14 of whom belong to the Giripremi and GGIM family. I am honored to be a part of this journey and wish GGIM continued success.”

Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar acknowledged GGIM’s resilience, saying, “Building an institute like this requires courage and determination. The GGIM team has not only honed these qualities in the mountains but has also successfully applied them in real life to establish this prestigious institution. I wish them all the best for their future endeavors.”

Brigadier (Rtd.) Ashok Abbey reflected on GGIM’s growth and urged them to explore new routes of climbing in Himalayas and styles of mountaineering, stating, “GGIM has been instrumental in instilling adventure culture across generations. Their efforts will continue to shape the adventure sector in India for years to come.”

The event featured an engaging panel discussion with leading experts in the field, including Col. Anshuman Bhadoria (Principal, NIM), Col. Hemchandra Singh (Principal, Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering), Col. (Rtd.) Wing Commander Devidatta Panda, and Keshab Paudial (Head, Peak Promotions, Nepal). The discussion, moderated by Bhushan Harshe and Ushaprabha Page, revolved around the future of adventure education, its role in shaping young minds, and the challenges in mountaineering.

Col. Anshuman Bhadoria emphasized that adventure education helps in decluttering the mind and fostering resilience.

Wing Commander Devidatta Panda drew parallels between combat flying and mountaineering, highlighting their shared mental and physical challenges.

Col. Hemchandra Singh spoke about the spiritual aspects and transformative impact of adventure education on individuals.

The event also honored the dedicated GGIM and Giripremi Adventure Foundation (GAF) team, including over 80 freelance instructors who play a crucial role in training and mentoring aspiring mountaineers. Notable Everesteers such as Ashish Mane, Jitendra Gaware, Krishna Dhokale, Prasad Joshi, and Anand Mali were among the attendees who continue to inspire the mountaineering community.

Dr. Amit Tribhuvan skillfully anchored the evening, while Bhushan Harshe delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, and participants for making the event a grand success.

GGIM’s 10th-anniversary celebration was a testament to its commitment to fostering mountaineering culture in India. As it embarks on the next phase of its journey, the institute aims to further expand its reach, introduce innovative training modules, and continue shaping the future of adventure education.