CEC, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, attended the graduation ceremony of the Basic Mountaineering Course organised by the Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering (IISM), Gulmarg, at the Adventure Centre, Panikhar, on August 25.

The training programme saw the participation of 36 trainees from different parts of the country, who underwent training in mountaineering, high-altitude trekking and other adventure activities.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon congratulated the trainees on successfully completing the course and expressed hope that the skills and experience gained during the training would prove valuable in their future endeavours.

Highlighting Kargil’s immense potential for adventure tourism, the CEC referred to the Suru Valley and other trekking routes and adventure destinations across the district. He said Kargil, with its diverse terrain, high-altitude landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has significant potential to emerge as a leading destination for adventure tourism.

Dr. Jaffer urged the trainees to become ambassadors of Kargil tourism by sharing their experiences of the region with people in their respective states and across the country. He said their visit would help create greater awareness about Kargil’s tourism potential and encourage more visitors to explore the district.

Emphasising the importance of sports and adventure activities, the CEC said participation in such programmes promotes physical fitness, discipline, confidence, resilience and a spirit of exploration, particularly among young people.

He also welcomed the participation of trainees from different parts of the country, describing it as a reflection of India’s diversity and the growing interest in Kargil as a destination for adventure and outdoor activities.

The CEC invited the trainees and instructors to attend the Suru Valley Festival, scheduled for August 26–27, and encouraged them to use the opportunity to experience the cultural heritage, traditions and natural beauty of Kargil and Ladakh, along with its trekking and adventure destinations.

Dr. Jaffer Akhoon appreciated Col. Thapa and his team, instructors and all those associated with the programme for their efforts in successfully conducting the training and promoting adventure activities in the region.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates and mementos were presented to the trainees who successfully completed the course.