The Phek battalion of the 38 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ 5 Sector and IG AR (N) flagged off the mountaineering expedition to summit Mt Saramati, the highest peak of Nagaland on 10 January.

The expedition was flagged off by Commandant 38 Assam Rifles Col Hem Chandra Singh at 11am from Meluri town in Phek district.

The expedition team comprises of three officers and 28 soldiers of the 38 Assam Rifles including two riflewomen. In order to encourage the youth towards adventure activities, 17 local youths including two girls have been co-opted in the team.

Various civil society organisations, village leaders and the local populace attended the flagging off ceremony, showing support and enthusiasm for the expedition.

The expedition will start from Meluri and move towards Base Camp via Ziphu–Mimi–Pungro.

Mt Saramati will be scaled on 15 January, Indian Army Day, wherein the tricolour along with Indian Army and Assam Rifles Flag will be hoisted on the top.

The aim of this expedition, according to the organisers, is to re invigorate pride amongst the locals by ascending the highest peak of Nagaland. The expedition further aims to promote Naga unity, women empowerment and the importance of physical fitness for a healthy lifestyle and mind.