Leh, 29 June (H.S.): The Indian Army's “Forever in Operations Division” Joint Mountain Terrain Bicycling Expedition 2026 concluded at the Kargil War Memorial, successfully traversing the challenging journey of 550 kms across the rugged terrain of Ladakh. The Expedition, flagged off from the Rezang La War Memorial on 10 Jun 2026, was undertaken as part of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas Commemorations. The Expedition connected two iconic war memorials of national significance, Rezang La War Memorial, Chushul honouring the legendary Battle of Rezang La in 1962 and the Kargil War Memorial, Drass to honour the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War.
The Expedition brought together a team comprising One Officer, Three Junior Commissioned Officers, Sixteen Other Ranks and five enthusiastic Civilian Cyclists from Leh and Kargil Districts. During the course of the Expedition, the team pushed its physical and mental limits while traversing the formidable high altitude passes of Chang La, Fotu La & Hambuting La, negotiating steep gradients and unpredictable weather conditions at an altitude ranging from 9,000 to 18,000 feet. The arduous journey demanded exceptional endurance, resilience and teamwork, all of which were amply demonstrated by the participants.
Beyond the physical challenge, the Expedition focused on engaging with local communities and inspiring the youth of the region. During the journey, the Expedition Team conducted 22 Outreach Activities across 16 Government Schools, 2 Colleges/ Universities and 4 Monasteries engaging with more than 2,500 Students, NCC Cadets and Youth across Ladakh. Through these interactions, the participants shared inspiring accounts of valour from the Kargil War and highlighted the values of patriotism, national integration and selfless service.
A notable highlight of the Expedition was the interaction with Shri Harsh Malhotra, Hon'ble Minister of State for Corporate Affairs and Road, Transport and Highways, at Thiksey Monastery, Leh. The Hon'ble Minister lauded the Expedition as a fitting tribute to the nation's Bravehearts and appreciated the team's efforts in inspiring the youth and reinforcing the spirit of Nation First, thereby adding further significance and encouragement to the journey. The team also had the opportunity to interact with eminent Buddhist Monk Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Spiritual Leader and Founder President of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), Leh, recognising its commendable efforts in providing education, healthcare and opportunities to underprivileged children and orphans.
As the nation prepares to commemorate the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, the successful completion of the Forever in Operations Division Joint Mountain Terrain Bicycle Expedition 2026 stands as a tribute to Kargil Bravehearts and reaffirms the Indian Army's enduring commitment to preserving their legacy while inspiring future generations through courage, endurance and selfless service.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar
