India’s First ever Diploma in Mountaineering nominated for International Award.

The Diploma in Mountaineering Programme started by the Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering (GGIM), has been shortlisted for UIAA Mountain Protection Award.

Out of the total 20 entries shortlisted from 19 countries worldwide, this is the only project from India.

UIAA stands for International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme). It’s the global organisation that represents and promotes mountaineering, climbing, and related activities, said a release today.

The Guardian Giripremi Institute of Mountaineering (GGIM) launched India’s first Diploma in Mountaineering program, a 36-credit academic course. This program, developed in association with Savitribai Phule Pune University and guided by the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, is designed to integrate adventure education into an academic curriculum. It aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and practical skills for safe and responsible mountaineering, including rock climbing, ice climbing, navigation, survival techniques, and first aid.

The Diploma in Mountaineering program is a significant development in adventure education in India, as it is the first instance where such training is recognized within an academic framework. The program includes both theoretical and practical components, with online lectures and practical sessions conducted in the Sahyadri and Himalayan regions. The curriculum is designed to improve physical fitness, mental and emotional stability, and to develop confident, capable, and responsible leaders, according to Giripremi.

GGIM, the institute behind this program, is a part of the Giripremi mountaineering club, which has over three decades of experience in the field. GGIM offers various other courses including a Certificate Course in High Altitude Mountaineering, Basic and Advance Rock Climbing Courses, and Summer and Winter Adventure Courses. The Diploma program is particularly noteworthy for its comprehensive approach to mountaineering education, blending theoretical knowledge with practical training in diverse terrains like the Sahyadri and Himalayas, and including a Himalayan expedition to the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.

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