Once the trek is confirmed by making the payment of fees, in case of cancellation, trainee/paricipant should communicate to the GGIM office through email communication at [ggimpune@gmail.com]

After receiving the cancellation request, our team will evaluate the case and refund the applicable amount as per the stage of cancellation. 

Following are the conditions and applicable deduction. 

1. If cancellation is made one month or more prior to the trek, we will refund 100% of the paid amount.

2. If cancellation is made 15 to 30 days prior to the trek, we will refund 50% of the paid amount.

3. If the cancellation is made within 15 days prior to the trek, there will be no refund.

4. If the trek gets cancelled due to any any natural calamities like Uttarakhand floods, Nepal Earthquake, Covid-19 pandemic, we will refund the trek fees deducting actual expenses incurred depending on the stage of the trek.

• GGIM shall strive to create and maintain an inclusive environment to maximize the potential of all staff and participants/clients.
• GGIM shall always provide equal and fair opportunities to its instructors as well as participants/clients to avoid both immoral and unlawful discrimination. 
• GGIM instructors shall always brief and orient the clients / participants about the activity/ surroundings before starting the same. 
• In all adventure activities, excursions, camps, treks, courses, the number of instructors to participants ratio is maintained as per the safety standards. 
• No participant to be forced for undergoing any adventure activity against his or her will irrespective of age-group or gender. 
• Instructors shall always work in open environment and avoid any private or unobserved situations. 
• In case of residential camp, the stay arrangements will be separate for male and female participants. Female instructors to stay close to girls dormitories or tent. Male instructors to stay close to boys dormitories or tents. 
• Adventure Activities like rappelling, valley crossing, climbing, zip line, obstacle course, cobweb etc. where there is prime focus on safety and unintentional touch is unavoidable from safety reasons, female instructors to help girls/ women for safety and male instructors to help boys / men. In case if female instructors are unavailable at that time, instructors should request volunteers from girls/women to assist the female participant. In case if none of these is possible, instructors should take consent and assist the participant as required. Same gender abuse can also occur. So the instructor must keep an eye to avoid such situations.
• No instructor is allowed to post any picture or video featuring students of camp or clients on his or her personal social media channels. The photos and videos will be made for the purpose of documentation and shall be submitted to School or client organization for their use. 
• Especially for kids treks or camps along with all safety instructors, there will be at least one or two senior instructors who will be there as observers or care takers who will make sure all safety norms are followed properly. These senior instructors are expected to report occurrence of any incidence of misbehavior, misconduct or miscommunication.

No compromise zone 

(Following things are not acceptable and won’t be tolerated under any circumstances.)

• GGIM will never tolerate discrimination, harassment, bullying or victimization of office staff, contractedemployees or third parties who work on GGIM’s behalf. l
• The inappropriate behavior and /or inappropriate communication of instructors with fellow instructors, participant, clients and with any individual/group of any age, gender, background will not be tolerated and will beconsidered as serious offence which can lead up to termination of job or contract. l
• Actions such as smoking, consuming liquor, chewing tobacco while on duty by instructors or any GGIM staff willlead to the termination of contract or suspension.

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Data Policy for Institutes and Trainees

This Data Policy outlines how Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering – GGIM (“we,” “us,” or “our”) collects, uses, and shares personal information about our trainees, prospective trainees, and other users who interact with our services, website, training courses or programs (collectively referred to as the “Services”).

Information We Collect

We collect the following types of information to ensure a smooth and secure delivery of our Services:

• Information Provided Directly:
• Personal details such as name, email address, phone number, date of birth, emergency contact information, identification details (e.g., passport or government ID), medical history, dietary preferences, and other relevant details provided during registration for courses, training programs, or events.
• For trainees under the age of 18, all information is collected with the consent of their parents or legal guardians.
• Information shared during inquiries, feedback submissions, or through forms on our website or physical premises.

• Information Collected Automatically:
• When using our Services or visiting our website, we may automatically collect information such as your IP address, browser type, device information, operating system, referring website, and data on the pages you visit, including the time and date of access.

• Photos and Videos:
• During training programs, workshops, or events, we may capture photos and videos of trainees and activities.
• These may be used for promotional purposes, including but not limited to marketing materials, social media, websites, and newsletters.

 Use of Your Information

• We use the information we collect to:
• Provide and manage our Services, including registration, scheduling, and training-related communications.
• Process enrollments, payments, and certificates of completion.
• Share relevant updates about training programs, workshops, or events.
• Ensure safety and compliance during training sessions or outdoor activities.
• Improve our Services, user experience, and website functionality.
• Respond to inquiries and support requests.
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Photos and Videos:Highlight the Institute’s activities and programs, share achievements, and showcase training experiences, with care to ensure privacy and respect for trainees and their guardians.

Sharing Your Information

We may share your personal information in the following circumstances:

• With Service Providers:
• We may share your information with third-party vendors, contractors, or partners who assist in providing our Services, such as payment processors, training facilitators, or logistics providers. These parties are obligated to use your information solely for our specified purposes and maintain its confidentiality.
• Photos and Videos:Media content may be shared publicly for promotional and informational purposes. We take care to ensure that sensitive or private details about trainees are not disclosed.
• Legal and Safety Disclosures:Your information may be disclosed if required by law, to comply with legal processes (e.g., court orders or subpoenas), or to protect the rights, property, or safety of the Institute, its trainees, staff, or the public.

Data Storage and Retention

We will retain your personal information, including photos and videos, for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law. If you wish to request deletion of your data, including any photos or videos, please contact us at [ggimpune@gmail.com]

Your Rights and Access your personal information.

If you are a resident of jurisdictions governed by data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you have the right to:

• Correct inaccuracies in your data.
• Request deletion of your data, subject to legal and operational obligations.
• Restrict processing or request data portability.
• Opt out of the use of photos and videos for promotional purposes.
• To exercise these rights, contact us at [Institute Email Address].

Security

We take reasonable measures to secure your personal information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. However, no system is entirely secure, and we cannot guarantee the absolute security of your information.

Policy Updates

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal obligations. Updates will be posted on our website, and we encourage you to review this policy regularly.

Contact Us

For questions or concerns regarding this policy or your personal data, please reach out to us at ggaimpune@gmail.com.

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Child Safeguarding & Protection Policy

Introduction

Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering (GGIM) is one of India’s leading mountaineering training and adventure education institutes. We are firmly committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity, safety, and well-being of all children who participate in our educational and recreational programmes.

In alignment with Indian laws, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, this policy outlines our approach to preventing harm, addressing concerns, and creating a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for children and young participants.

Purpose of the Policy

This policy aims to:

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children participating in GGIM programmes
• Clearly define roles and responsibilities related to child protection
• Establish procedures to identify, report, and respond to safeguarding concerns
• Promote a culture of respect, inclusivity, accountability, and care

Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All GGIM employees, instructors, volunteers, and contractors involved in delivering adventure education and training
• All children and young participants enrolled in GGIM programmes
• Parents, guardians, coordinators, and caregivers interacting with GGIM’s office or field teams
• School authorities, teachers, and administrators responsible for organising and supervising student participation
• Partner organisations, sponsors, and other stakeholders associated with programme delivery

Key Principles

• Child-Centred Approach: The safety, dignity, and best interests of the child are paramount
• Inclusivity and Respect: Every child, regardless of gender, caste, religion, socio-economic background, or ability, has the right to a safe and equitable environment
• Legal Compliance: All practices align with Indian child protection laws and applicable regulations
• Shared Responsibility: Safeguarding children is a collective responsibility of GGIM, schools, families, and stakeholders
• Zero Tolerance: Any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation will be addressed immediately and decisively

Roles and Responsibilities

GGIM Leadership

• Implement, monitor, and periodically review this policy
• Ensure compliance with child protection laws
• Provide mandatory safeguarding training to staff and volunteers
• Collaborate with schools and stakeholders to strengthen child safety measures

GGIM Staff & Volunteers

• Follow all safeguarding protocols and the Code of Conduct
• Maintain professional, respectful, and appropriate interactions with children
• Remain vigilant and report concerns to the designated authority immediately

School Authorities (Teachers, Administrators, Accompanying Staff)

• Work closely with GGIM to identify risks and enforce safety measures
• Prepare students by briefing them on behaviour and safety expectations
• Report any safeguarding concerns to the designated officer or relevant authorities

Partner Organisations & Sponsors

• Support safeguarding measures within their scope of work
• Ensure alignment with GGIM’s child protection standards
• Cooperate promptly in addressing any safety concerns

Parents & Guardians

• Encourage open communication with children about their experiences
• Share relevant medical or behavioural information
• Stay informed about programme safety measures and policies

Participants (Children & Young Learners)

• Follow behavioural guidelines set by GGIM and schools
• Report discomfort, concerns, or unsafe situations to a trusted adult
• Treat peers, staff, and the environment with respect

Prevention Measures

Safe Recruitment

• Background checks for employees and volunteers where applicable
• Clear communication of GGIM’s child protection expectations

Training & Awareness

• Mandatory safeguarding training for staff and volunteers
• Regular updates on safeguarding practices and legal developments

Code of Conduct

• Clear guidelines on acceptable and unacceptable behaviour
• Unsupervised one-on-one interactions are discouraged unless essential and documented

Reporting & Response

Recognising Concerns

• Awareness of physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, or exploitation

Reporting Concerns

• Immediate reporting to the designated Safeguarding Officer
• Confidential handling of all reports

Responding to Incidents

• Prompt action in coordination with school authorities and relevant agencies
• Support and assistance for affected children and families
• Immediate steps to ensure the safety of all participants

Risk Management in Adventure Activities

Safety Assessments

• Activity-specific risk assessments
• Age-appropriate supervision and safety procedures aligned with internationally recommended standards

Emergency Preparedness

• Trained staff in first aid and emergency response
• Clear communication protocols with schools, parents, and guardians

Monitoring & Review

• Annual review of the policy in line with legal updates
• Feedback mechanisms for children, parents, staff, and stakeholders
• Continuous improvement of safeguarding practices

Conclusion

This policy reflects GGIM’s unwavering commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for children participating in our educational and recreational programmes. By aligning with Indian laws, government guidelines, and internationally recommended safety standards, we work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that children can learn, explore, and grow with confidence—free from harm, fear, or discrimination.

At Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering (GGIM), we prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of our trainees. This policy outlines how you can report complaints and how we address them efficiently.

The scope of Policy – This policy applies to all trainees and participants in our programs, courses, expeditions, and events. Complaints may relate to:

• Course quality, facilities, or equipment.
• Safety practices or risk management.
• Behavior of staff, instructors, or participants.
• Administrative or procedural issues.

How to File a Complaint

1. Verbal Complaint: Speak directly to an instructor, program leader, or staff member.
2. Written Complaint: Email us at ggimpune@gmail.com. Include details like the date, time, location, and a description of the issue.

Complaint Process

• Acknowledgment: We will confirm receipt of your complaint within 72 working
• Investigation: The issue will be investigated within 7 working days.
• Resolution: A resolution will be shared with you within 15 working days of acknowledgment.
• Escalation: If dissatisfied, you may escalate to the institute director or management, who will review and respond within 15 working days.

Confidentiality and Fairness

• Complaints are handled discreetly to protect privacy.
• No one will face retaliation for filing a genuine complaint.

Continuous Improvement  

Complaints help us improve. We review them regularly to enhance our services.

Contact Us For assistance or to file a complaint:

• Email: ggimpune@gmail.com
• Phone: 9284863609
• Address: 1207 B Asmita Hsg Socy, Flat no 4, 2nd floor, Apte Road, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, Maharashtra, 411004, India.

We aim to resolve issues fairly and professionally, ensuring a positive experience for all.

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