Defence Minister lauds Tiranga Mountain Rescue for decade of service
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday visited a photo exhibition organised by Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi to mark 10 years of the organisation’s service in high-altitude rescue operations.
Titled “A Decade of Silent Service to the Nation”, the exhibition showcased photographs documenting TMR’s rescue missions across challenging mountainous terrains and disaster-hit regions of the country.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Singh praised the courage and commitment of TMR volunteers, describing their work as a reflection of the “true spirit of India”.
“Our soldiers endure extreme hardships while guarding the borders. At times, even nature stands against them. In such situations, mountain rescuers risk their own lives to bring them to safety,” he said.
The Defence Minister said the organisation’s work not only boosts the morale of soldiers stationed in difficult terrains but also reassures local communities living in remote mountain regions.
He added that while technology and systems may assist rescue efforts, it is ultimately individuals driven by a sense of duty who step forward to save lives.
“TMR is not limited to rescue operations alone. It is indirectly contributing to border stability, community confidence and national resilience,” he said.
Founder of TMR, Hemant Sachdev, described the exhibition as a tribute to volunteers who have worked under extreme conditions during rescue missions.
“Our silent service has always been for the nation, and we remain committed to safeguarding lives in the mountains, where every rescue is a race against time,” he said.
Chief of the Army Staff Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials attended the event.
Over the past decade, TMR has participated in several major rescue and disaster response operations, including the Manipur Tupul landslide in 2022, the Sikkim Glacial Lake Outburst Floods in 2023, the Wayanad floods in 2024, and the Dharali landslide and flash floods in 2025.
The organisation also undertook notable recovery missions such as retrieving remains from the 1968 AN-12 aircraft crash near Rohtang and rescue operations involving Border Roads Organisation workers in Mana, Uttarakhand.
