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Indian Express
15 hours ago
- General
- Indian Express
Bengal mountaineer lies dead on Everest: why is it so difficult to retrieve a fallen climber's body?
A 45-year-old mountaineer from Ranaghat, West Bengal, died while descending from Mount Everest last month. The body of Subrata Ghosh, which was spotted on Hillary Step in the so-called 'death zone' of Everest on May 16, continues to lie frozen on the world's highest peak, even as a death certificate has been issued. Here's what experts say on the challenges of retrieving a body from high peaks such as Everest and Kanchenjunga, sometimes referred to ominously as the 'world's highest graveyards'. Why is it so difficult to bring down the body of a mountaineer from a peak such as Everest? The first hurdle is the costs involved. 'Altitude body recovery is a huge task; it is exorbitantly costly,' Debdas Nandi, Adviser to the West Bengal Mountaineering and Adventure Sports Foundation (WBMASF), under the state's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, said. Costs include the remuneration for sherpas, insurance, medical and logistics support, and the rent for a helicopter. Very few companies are capable of undertaking such missions, which drives up costs further, Nandi said. No more than 2 or 3 out of more than 100 expedition organizers specialize in the retrieval of bodies, and the cost in Ghosh's case could exceed Rs 1 crore, he said. Debasish Biswas, a mountaineer who knew Ghosh, said one of the organizers had apparently estimated a budget of Rs 1.5 crore to retrieve the body. Eight or ten good sherpas would be required, and the cost of employing them alone could exceed Rs 50 lakh, Biswas said. Most victims of Everest fall in the 'death zone' at altitudes above 8,000 metres, often in crevasses covered by snow and ice. Once the team of sherpas reaches the body, moving it can be extremely difficult, especially if it is in a tough-to-reach spot or at an altitude where a helicopter cannot operate, or where there is a danger of avalanches or rockfalls. 'There are places through which transporting a body is extremely challenging. Some rock faces are nearly vertical, and the body must be gently lowered using a rope as the sherpas themselves make their way down,' Nandi said. A frozen body can weigh more than 200 pounds (90 kg) with equipment, and if it is embedded in the mountain, prising it away and bringing it down presents an additional challenge. The task of lowering or carrying the body down to a lower altitude from where it can be safely transported by helicopter, can take several days, with a number of rest stops. 'A helicopter can go up to Camp 2 on Everest, which is located at an altitude of 6,750 metres (22,145 feet),' Nandi said. 'At altitudes higher than that, only sherpas can operate.' Subrata Ghosh's case presents a specific challenge because the spring climbing season (March-May, when the weather is stable) is now over. 'The season closed on May 29, so there is no logistics support available,' Nandi said. 'Subrata Ghosh's body is lying 500-600 metres below the peak, at a very dangerous place. It is so narrow that two people cannot pass together. Even if the family approaches the government, it can only be done later, not in this season,' he said. What sort of preparation goes into attempting a retrieval? Retrieval, if and when feasible, has to be planned and executed meticulously. The first step is to identify and report a missing or deceased climber to the relevant authorities, such as the Nepalese government or expedition organisers. Next, a thorough feasibility assessment has to be conducted, considering the body's location, weather conditions, and the availability of skilled personnel and resources. A detailed retrieval plan is then formulated, outlining the route, necessary equipment, and manpower. Coordination between government agencies, climbing teams, and rescue organizations is of paramount importance. Climbers and rescuers may have to undergo acclimatization and specialized training for high-altitude operations, mastering the use of ropes, ladders, harnesses, and other equipment. Once the body is reached, it must be examined, documented, and prepared for extraction, sometimes using stretchers or sleds. What are the odds of success of a mission to retrieve a body from a mountain peak? Despite immense challenges, successful retrievals have occurred in the past. These include the bodies of Dipankar Ghosh, who climbed Everest in 2011, and died while descending from Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world, in May 2019; Rajib Bhattacharya, who died on Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest peak, in May 2016; Biplab Baidya and Kuntal Karar, who died on Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, in May 2019; and Paresh Nath, who died on Everest in May 2016. Bodies of several of the more than 40 dead in the 2014 Annapurna disaster were retrieved as well. However, many bodies could not be retrieved, including that of Chhanda Gayen, the first Bengali civilian woman to conquer Everest, who died on Kanchenjunga in May 2014. Sweety Kumari reports from West Bengal for The Indian Express. She is a journalist with over a decade of experience in the media industry. Covers Crime, Defence, Health , Politics etc and writes on trending topics. With a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories. She has honed her craft across diverse beats including aviation, health, incidents etc. Sweety delivers impactful journalism that informs and engages audiences. Sweety Kumari is a graduate of Calcutta University with an Honors degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College and a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University. Originally from Bihar, she is brought up in Kolkata and completed her education from Kendriya Vidyalaya SaltLake. Multilingual, Sweety is fluent in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili. She started her career as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a newsportal in Kolkata. She is working with The Indian Express for 8 years now. ... Read More
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
This word means: Sundays on Cycle
WHY NOW? Sunday (June 1) marked the 25th edition of the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative, which was dedicated as a tribute to India's armed forces under the banner of the 'Tiranga Rally' in multiple cities. Over 1,200 cyclists participated in the rally at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, led by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya. Fit India Sundays on Cycle is a nationwide fitness initiative to combat obesity. Launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the campaign aims to promote cycling as a sustainable, inclusive, and eco-friendly form of exercise. As normal physical movement becomes limited and the dependency on food and grocery delivery apps increases for a section of the urban population, getting regular exercise has become a challenge. Cycling comes in here as a budget-friendly, high-impact form of exercise that not only improves cardiovascular health and boosts mental well-being but also addresses the risks of youth obesity. Since its launch, the initiative has been held at over 5,000 locations, with participation from more than 3 lakh people. One can participate through a simple registration process on the MyBharat and Fit India website and mobile app. Several Sports Authority of India (SAI) centres and Khelo India Centres (KICs) now host a variety of fitness activities during Sundays on Cycle events. These include Zumba, rope skipping, guided yoga sessions, and free health check-ups conducted by experts from the National Centre of Sports Sciences and Research (NCSSR). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent Mann Ki Baat address, emphasised the need for nationwide awareness and collective action to reduce obesity, particularly through reducing edible oil consumption. India is grappling with a silent yet serious health crisis. Once seen as an issue limited to urban lifestyles (although still concentrated there), obesity has now spread across all sections of society, cutting across age groups, genders, and income levels. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), obesity is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that can impair health. On the other hand, being overweight is a condition of excessive fat deposits. The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21) stated that over 24 per cent of Indian women and 23 per cent of Indian men are obese. Of greater concern is the rising number of children under the age of five who are now classified as overweight. A Lancet study earlier this year found that in 2021, India had overtaken China to become the country with the largest number of overweight and obese older adolescents, aged between 15 and 24. This growing trend is largely driven by unhealthy eating habits, sedentary routines, and a sharp decline in physical activity — all increasingly common in modern Indian lifestyles. High levels of sugar, salt and food items are a matter of concern, especially as the MNCs producing them have shifted from high-income to low- and middle-income countries.
Economic Times
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Economic Times
Naushad Moosa appointed India U23 men's national football team head coach
The All India Football Federation (AIFF), on Tuesday, appointed Naushad Moosa as the head coach of the India U-23 men's national team, as per the official website of AIFF. Moosa will take charge of the team on June 1, when they begin their camp in Kolkata, with the long-term aim of preparing the Indian team for the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi and Nagoya, in Japan, in line with the plans laid out to the federation by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. While performing well in the Land of the Rising Sun remains the long-term goal, on a more immediate basis, Moosa's team will face Tajikistan on June 18 and Kyrgyz Republic on June 21 in two exposure matches in Deputy Secretary General Satyanarayan M said, "In discussions with Manolo Marquez, we concluded that the federation needs to develop the U23 team with more emphasis. The best of these players are all training 10 months a year, and we are thankful to the clubs for the readiness with which they are available for national team duty," as quoted from the official website of AIFF."However, some of them are not getting much game-time, which is where we are looking to bridge the gap by playing exposure matches against other competitive international teams of the same age group, during the international windows," he said. "We want to thank NorthEast United FC for cooperating in releasing Naushad Moosa for the international windows," he per the preparation plans for the Asian Games next year, the federation plans to utilize the FIFA International Windows in September, October, November, and March to arrange short training camps of around 10-14 days for the India U23s, which would also include matches against other U23 teams from around Asia, with longer camps being planned ahead of the June 2026 FIFA International Window, when there are no club who had coached the India U23s in two friendly matches against Malaysia last year, said after his appointment, "Representing my country, whether as a player or a coach, is one of the greatest honors in my career. Opportunity to lead the U-23 team for a second year is both exciting and a proud moment. Last year, we built a strong foundation, and the players showed real commitment. This year, we return with more experience, more hunger, and a few new faces who I believe will add great strength to the squad. I'm confident we can continue to grow and make the country proud."Later this year, the India U23s will also partake in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, the draw for which will be held on May 29, 2025, at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia."The June games are very important in our journey toward the Asian Games and the AFC U23 Asian Cup. This is an opportunity to assess player responses under pressure, improve our tactics, and build stronger bonds within the team. Our goal is to be fully prepared for these major tournaments by testing ourselves against strong opposition," said camping in Kolkata for a fortnight, the India U23s, on June 16, will travel to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, for the two exposure matches, and return on June 22.
India Gazette
18-05-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launches annual calendar under Khelo India to strengthen India's sporting ecosystem
New Delhi [India], May 18 (ANI): In a significant step to strengthen grassroots sports and athlete development across the country, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Government of India, has launched a comprehensive Annual Calendar under the Khelo India initiative. This effort reflects the government's vision of building a structured, inclusive, and competitive sporting ecosystem that engages youth across diverse disciplines throughout the year. Speaking about the initiative, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, stated as quoted from a press release by Sai Media, 'The Khelo India Annual Calendar is not just a schedule but it is a strategic blueprint strengthening India's domestic competition structure for transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse.' 'Over the past decade, Indian sports have undergone a remarkable transformation under the able leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. We have created a dynamic and inclusive sporting ecosystem with regular national-level competitions under the Khelo India initiative. Taking this vision forward, we will soon introduce a series of Khelo India Games and other competitions throughout the year -- including formats like the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG), Khelo India School Games (KISG), Khelo India Water Sports, Khelo India North-East Games, amongst others,' Mandaviya said. 'These events will be pivotal in identifying, nurturing, and preparing India's young talent. Through structured competitions, year-round engagement, and pan-India participation, we are building the foundation for sustained sporting excellence as we gear up for the Commonwealth Games 2030 and the Olympic Games 2036. India is on the move, and the youth are at the heart of this sporting revolution,' he added. The Khelo India platform already includes four structured national-level Games, namely the Khelo India Youth Games, Khelo India University Games, Khelo India Para Games, and Khelo India Winter Games, which have seen great success. These events are conducted in collaboration with the respective National Sports Federations (NSFs), ensuring technical conduct at par with international standards. With clear feeder pathways and structured planning, these Games act as key platforms for talent identification and long-term athlete development. Building on this strong foundation, the Ministry is now expanding the Khelo India umbrella to include more events that aim to unlock the untapped potential of different regions of India and bring to the forefront the vast and diverse talent pool of the country. These additional Games will not only promote sports at the grassroots but also give visibility to disciplines and communities that have historically been underrepresented in national sporting platforms. A special focus is being given to the Khelo India School Games (KISG), which will follow a tiered structure, starting from the district level, moving to the state level, and culminating in national-level competitions. This framework is designed to provide early exposure to young and budding athletes, preparing them for the experience of competing in structured, high-quality events that reflect the standards of international sporting competitions. Furthermore, the inclusion of events like the Khelo India Martial Arts Games, Khelo India Tribal Games, and Khelo India Swadeshi Games aims to bring indigenous and traditional martial arts into the mainstream. Many of these sports, such as those featured in the Asian Games, have deep cultural roots and strong followings, and are now being provided with national platforms for broader recognition and development. To ensure successful execution and long-term impact, each Khelo India event will have clearly defined Host States or Union Territories. This approach will help bolster local sports infrastructure, promote capacity building, and prepare regions to host national and international sporting events in the future. Additionally, these events are expected to enhance sports tourism and contribute to local economies. The current sporting year has already witnessed the successful completion of three major events. The Khelo India Winter Games were held in Jammu and Kashmir and Gulmarg in January-February 2025. The Khelo India Para Games were conducted in Delhi in March-April 2025, and the Khelo India Youth Games were hosted with enthusiasm in Bihar in May 2025, reinforcing the state's growing presence in India's sports landscape. All three events received strong participation and showcased the inclusive and expanding reach of Khelo India. Adding to the momentum, the first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) is set to take place in Diu from 19th to 25th May 2025. This landmark event will draw national attention to coastal and beach sports, offering a unique competitive platform while also highlighting the region's tourism potential. The calendar for the remainder of the year includes several major events, such as the Khelo India School Games (August to December), Khelo India University Games (March-April), Water Sports and North-East Games (May-June), Tribal Games (September in Chhattisgarh), and the Indigenous and Martial Art Games (July-August in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh). Complementary initiatives like the Fit India Carnival (February, Delhi), ASMITA Leagues, and Peace and Development League activities will also run throughout the year across the country. This carefully designed, evidence-based calendar draws from past experiences and incorporates seasonal, regional, and sport-specific factors to improve overall planning and effectiveness. It is also structured to offer greater visibility to sponsors, attract media engagement, and create opportunities for tourism and youth mobilization. States will be approached to express interest in hosting these events, and a common proposal mechanism is being developed to streamline multi-event hosting. Through this expanded and structured approach, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports continues to reaffirm its vision of building a fit, competitive, and globally recognized sporting nation, empowering every young athlete with the opportunity to dream big, train hard, and proudly represent India on the world stage. (ANI)
India Gazette
18-05-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
"The vision is a fitter Bharat": Tania Sachdev joins 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' marathon at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium
New Delhi [India], May 18 (ANI): The iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium witnessed a vibrant morning of fitness and enthusiasm as the 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' marathon rolled through the national capital. The event, part of a nationwide movement launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in December 2024, united by a common goal, a fitter and healthier India. 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' is promoting cycling as a sustainable, inclusive, and eco-friendly mode of exercise. Emphasizing the dual benefits of health and environmental sustainability. Indian chess grandmaster Tania Sachdev who was present at the event expressed her appreciation for the initiative and the enthusiastic participation. 'The vision is a fitter Bharat,' Sachdev told ANI. 'Initiatives like this are very powerful to get fitter and come together. All are very motivated, and the officials of CGST have participated in the initiative with full energy. The initiative is all about bringing India together,' she added. Sachdev, was a key member of the Indian team that clinched gold at the 45th Chess Olympiad 2024. During the Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary in September, the Indian contingent made history when both men's and women's teams secured gold medals for the first time ever. The Indian women's chess team of Harika Dronavalli, R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agarwal, and Tania Sachdev won gold after beating Azerbaijan 3.5-0.5. Harika Dronavalli, Divya Deshmukh, and Vantika Agrawal won their respective matches in the final round. While, R Vaishali drew her match against Ulviyya Fataliyeva for the first time, alongside teammates Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, and Vantika Agrawal. (ANI)
