IMF EAST ZONE COMMITTEE

Dear All,

Indian Mountaineering Foundation East Zone, in association with HALDIA REFINERY EMPLOYEES' CLUB, is organizing a 2-day Workshop on Sport Climbing followed by a competition.

Date: 16th & 17th August 2026
Venue: Haldia Refinery Employees' Club Climbing Wall, West Bengal, Pin- 721657.

Eligibility: Open to all.

Fee: ₹399(Rupees Three hundred ninety nine only)

Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeuuFN9WZQJmQgFx32ns8vEDH0shfCjDaL3mLoXThgwJC_ixw/viewform

For queries, please contact:
Arindam(Coordination In-Charge): +91 95638 04118
Email: [email protected]

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC &
Chairman-IMF East Zone
+919432245695

REPORT ON THE 2ND "KOLKATA" SCREENING OF THE 7TH IMF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL, 1at August 2026.

Respected All,

The Indian Mountaineering Foundation – East Zone, in collaboration with The Himalayan Club, Kolkata Section, successfully hosted the "2nd Kolkata Screening of the 7th IMF Mountain Film Festival" on 1st August 2026.

The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout of 'over 190 attendees', primarily comprising members from various mountaineering clubs across the region.

Key Highlights of the Event:

1. Tribute to Legends
The festival commenced with a minute of silence in memory of Mr. Nirmal Purja and nine members of the Mt. Broad Peak expedition — the 12th highest peak in the world — who tragically lost their lives in an avalanche.

2. Graduation Ceremony
A special segment of the program was the graduation ceremony for participants of the Rock Climbing Course and Adventure Camp conducted by The Himalayan Club, Kolkata Section. Certificates were awarded to the successful participants.

3. Presentation
A PowerPoint presentation on the successful trek to Kuari Pass was also screened, sharing experiences and insights from the expedition team.

4. Inauguration Ceremony
Following a short tea break, the film festival was inaugurated. The ceremonial lamp was lit by Smt. Dipali Sinha, veteran mountaineer, in the presence of:
- Wg Cdr (Retd.) Amit Chowdhury, General Secretary UIAA
- Sri Debdas Nandy, Advisor(Mountaineering), WBMASF
- Dr. Kallol Das, Vice President, The Himalayan Club
- Sri Ratanlal Biswas, Eminent Trekker
- Sri Krishnendu Bikash Parial, Treasurer, IMF East Zone

5. Partnership Recognition
Appreciation was extended to The Himalayan Club for their collaborative efforts. Special thanks were accorded to Dr. Kallol Das, Vice President, and Sri Nilay Chakraborty, Hony. Local Secretary, for their support in organizing the event.

6. Film Introductions
Two budding mountaineers from Bengal, Koushani and Swargarohini, introduced each film before its screening with passion and insight, engaging the audience effectively.

7. Smooth Ex*****on
The event was conducted smoothly with seamless coordination and the dedicated efforts of the organizing team.

The screening concluded with great enthusiasm and appreciation from the audience. Such events play a vital role in promoting mountain culture, adventure awareness, and camaraderie within the mountaineering community.

With warm regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member, Governing Council &
Chairman, IMF East Zone
+91 94322 45695

REPORT: MOUNTAIN Q&A – ASK. LEARN. CLIMB CONFIDENTLY.

Respected Members,

Indian Mountaineering Foundation – East Zone in Association with West Bengal Mountaineering and Adventure Sports Foundation successfully organized "MOUNTAIN Q&A" on 31st July 2026, 5:00 PM onwards at WBMASF Conference Hall, Radhanath Sikdar-Tenzing Norgay Bhawan, Vivekananda Yubabharati Krirangan, Salt Lake

Overview;
“Mountain Q&A: Ask. Learn. Climb Confidently.” – a unique interactive program designed to clarify mountaineering and adventure-related doubts directly with experts.

The objective of this session was to create an open platform for aspiring and experienced mountaineers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts to interact with seasoned professionals, clear their misconceptions, and gain practical knowledge about safe mountain practices.

Participation;
A total of 45 adventure enthusiasts from across Kolkata and nearby districts participated in the interactive session. Participants engaged actively by asking direct questions to the expert panel on various topics related to training, expeditions, safety, gear, and career in mountaineering.

Expert Panel;
The event was graced by the presence of distinguished experts:
1. Wg Cdr (Retd.) Amit Chowdhury – General Secretary, UIAA
2. Sri Debabrata Mukherjee – Member, Governing Council, IMF
3. Sri Dilip Naskar (David) – Eminent Mountaineer
4. Sri Debraj Dutta – Member, Governing Council, IMF & Chairman, IMF East Zone

The speakers shared their personal experiences, addressed technical and safety-related queries, and guided participants on best practices for responsible and sustainable mountaineering.

Key Highlights of the Interaction;
- Guidance on choosing the right training courses and expeditions
- Safety protocols and risk management in high-altitude trekking
- Importance of physical fitness, acclimatization, and proper gear
- Role of ethics and environmental responsibility in the mountains
- Career opportunities in adventure sports and mountaineering
- Updates on government policies, permits, and regulations

The open Q&A format encouraged honest dialogue and helped participants gain confidence and clarity.

Conclusion;
The event concluded on an inspiring note with the message:
"Mountains Have Questions. We Have Experiences. Let's Connect & Climb Together."

Participants expressed great appreciation for the initiative and requested that such interactive sessions be conducted regularly to bridge the gap between experts and the adventure community.

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member, Governing Council &
Chairman – IMF East Zone
+91 94322 45695

REPORT: WORKSHOP FOR TREKKING AGENCIES & COMPANIES OF EASTERN REGION

The " Workshop for Trekking Agencies & Companies of Eastern Region" successfully organized by Indian Mountaineering Foundation – East Zone in Association with the West Bengal Mountaineering and Adventure Sports Foundation, Dept of Youth Services & Sports, Govt of West Bengal.

Theme: For Safe Treks, Responsible Journeys and Sustainable Mountains.

Date: 31st July 2026

Venue: WBMASF Conference Hall, Radhanath Sikdar-Tenzing Norgay Bhawan, Vivekananda Yubabharati Krirangan, Salt Lake.

A total of 34 participants from various trekking agencies and companies attended the workshop.

Resource Persons / Faculty:
1. Sri Debabrata Mukherjee
2. Sri Dilip Naskar (David)
3. Sri Sandip Sinha

Objective:
To build a strong, responsible, and professional trekking ecosystem in the Eastern Region through knowledge sharing, policy awareness, and the development of a 'UNIFORM SOP' for safe and sustainable trekking operations and adventure journeys.

Key Areas of Discussion:
- Do’s & Don’ts for Safe Trekking
- Government Rules & Policies
- Doubt Clarification Session
- Clean Mountains, Clean Towns
- Uniform SOP for Safe Trekking Operations
- Networking & Collaboration among Agencies
- Ensuring Safety of Clients and Staff
- Promoting Sustainable and Responsible Trekking
- Building Credibility and Delivering Better Trekking Experiences

Valedictory Session;
The workshop concluded with an encouraging address by AVM (Retd.) Apurba Kumar Bhattacharya, Senior IMF Member and Former Principal, Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Certificates were distributed to the participants by him in the presence of Sri Debdas Nandy, Advisor on Mountaineering, WBMASF, Govt. of West Bengal.

Feedback;
The participants appreciated the initiative and requested that such workshops be organized periodically.

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member, Governing Council &
Chairman – IMF East Zone
+91 94322 45695

WORKSHOP FOR TREKKING AGENCIES & COMPANIES OF EASTERN REGION

Respected All,

The Indian Mountaineering Foundation – East Zone is pleased to announce a "Workshop for Trekking Agencies, Companies & Adventure tour operators of the Eastern Region", in Association With "West Bengal Mountaineering and Adventure Sports Foundation". For Safe Treks, Responsible Journeys and Sustainable Mountains.

This is a collaborative initiative by IMF East Zone to create awareness, align with government regulations, promote responsible practices, and develop a 'UNIFORM SOP' for safe and sustainable Trekking Operations and Adventur journeys.

OUR OBJECTIVE;
To build a strong, responsible and professional trekking ecosystem in the Eastern Region through knowledge sharing, policy awareness and the development of a uniform SOP.

Each Organisation Can Send Two Participants.

WHAT WE WILL FOCUS ON;
- DO'S & DON'TS:
Best practices and common mistakes to ensure safe and responsible trekking operations.
- DOUBT CLARIFICATION:
Interactive session with our experts to clear all your doubts.
- GOVERNMENT RULES & POLICIES:
Understanding the latest government regulations, permissions, compliance requirements and legal responsibilities.
- CLEAN MOUNTAINS, CLEAN TOWNS:
Our responsibility towards cleanliness of mountains, towns and cities we travel through.
- UNIFORM SOP FOR SAFE TREKKING:
Collaborative approach to develop and adopt a uniform SOP for safe, consistent and high quality trekking experiences.
- NETWORKING & COLLABORATION:
Connect with fellow professionals, share experiences and build a stronger trekking community.

WHY DO YOU PARTICIPATE?
- Ensure safety of clients and staff
- Stay updated with rules & policies
- Network with industry professionals
- Promote sustainable & responsible trekking
- Be part of the uniform SOP development
- Build credibility and deliver better trekking experiences

WORKSHOP DETAILS;
Date: 31st July 2026
Timing: 9 am to 1 pm.
Fee: ₹200(Two hundred only)
Slots: Limited Slots – by Registration Only
Venue: WBMASF Conference Hall, Radhanath Sikdar-Tenzing Norgay Bhawan, Vivekananda Yubabharati Krirangan, Salt Lake.

Regignation link: https://form.svhrt.com/6a5e322408fab3b6f53d4441

CONFIRM YOUR PARTICIPATION by 28th July 2026.

For More Information please contact:
Satyajit: +91 9051156611
Sandip: +91 8001800828

LET'S COLLABORATE. LET'S ELEVATE. LET'S LEAD BY EXAMPLE.

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC &
Chairman – IMF East Zone
+91 94322 45695

Online nominations invited for Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award 2025
Read More: https://newsonair.gov.in/online-nominations-invited-for-tenzing-norgay-national-adventure-award-2025/

Mountain Q&A : ASK. LEARN. CLIMB CONFIDENTLY.

Respected All,

"Indian Mountaineering Foundation – East Zone" In Association With "West Bengal Mountaineering and Adventure Sports Foundation" is going to host "Mountain Q&A", A Unique Interaction Program to Clarify Your Mountaineering Doubts Directly with the Experts

Date: 31st July 2026
Reporting Time: 17:00 hrs
Venue: WBMASF Conference Hall, Radhanath Sikdar-Tenzing Norgay Bhawan, Vivekananda Yubabharati Krirangan, Salt Lake.
Fee: ₹50(Fifty only)

Program Highlights:
- 50 Pre-Registered Participants get a chance to ask your questions directly
- 4 Eminent Experienced Skilled Mountaineers, Ready to Answer.
- Interactive Format; Ask directly to a specific speaker or let any expert answer
- Press Welcome; Media interaction encouraged

Our Expert Speakers:
1. Wg Cdr (Retd.) Amit Chowdhury, General Secretary, UIAA
2. Sri Debabrata Mukherjee, Member of the Governing Council - IMF
3. Sri Dilip Naskar(David), Eminent Mountaineer
4. Sri Debraj Dutta, Member of the Governing Council - IMF & Chairman, IMF East Zone

Mountains Have Questions. We Have Experiences.Let's Connect & Climb Together.

Limited Seats. Pre-Registration Required.
Register Now! Be Part of the Conversation.

Application link: https://form.svhrt.com/6a5a2ed28460ea85042b2f71

You will get confirmation, if you get selected.

For more details please contact:
+91 8001800828 /
+91 8296585123

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC &
Chairman – IMF East Zone
+91 94322 45695

Report of "PAHARI ADDA" on Sunday, 12th July 2026

Respected Adventure Lovers,

"PAHARI ADDA" , An interactive evening of mountains, stories, and inspiration by Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Apurba Kumar Bhattacharya — mountaineer and Himalayan explorer.

Venue: Leela Roy Assembly Hall, 49C, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata
Date: Sunday, 12th July 2026

Jointly Organized by:
"The Pahariya"( a platform for Mountain Lovers), "West Bengal Mountaineers & Trekkers' Confederation" & "IMF East Zone"

A hall full of renowned adventure enthusiasts from the city attended the program.

Sri Gautam Dutta introduced the speaker to the audience.

Sir shared his inspiring journey through an engaging audio-visual presentation, beginning with his early days in mountaineering.

His long and distinguished administrative career, rare sense of discipline, exemplary duty, and steadfast leadership have set a benchmark for his contemporaries and for future generations in Indian mountaineering. While he continues to pursue his beloved deity — the Himalayas — he has himself become one with the Himalayas in the eyes of countless students like us.

Sir’s ideals, sense of duty, efficiency, and disciplined philosophy of life also teach us that one can remain humble while keeping one’s head high.

May Sir live long. May his philosophy of life serve as an immediate guiding light for us, a beacon across the vast ocean, and eventually a pole star in the distant sky — this is my humble prayer.

Special thanks to Sri Kajal Dasgupta for the beautiful conduct of the program.

Regards,

Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC &
Chairman – IMF East Zone,
+91 94322 45695

lRespected Adventure Lovers,

You are cordially invited to attend "PAHARI ADDA". An interactive evening of mountains, stories, and inspiration.

Date: Sunday, 12th July 2026
Time: 5:00 PM
Venue: Leela Roy Assembly Hall
Adjacent to Forward Block Office
49C, Chittaranjan Avenue, Kolkata.

Jointly Organized by:
"The Paharia", "West Bengal Mountaineers & Trekkers' Confederation" & "IMF East Zone"

Special Guest & Speaker:
Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Apurba Kumar Bhattacharya, Former Principal 'Nehru Institute of Mountaineering'.

He will share inspiring stories from his mountaineering journey through an audio-visual presentation.

All Adventure Enthusiasts are Welcome. Your gracious presence will make the program more meaningful.

Regards,


Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC & Chairman – IMF East Zone,
+91 94322 45695

Indian Mountaineering Foundation East Zone, in collaboration with "The Himalayan Club, Kolkata Section", will host the 2nd "Kolkata" screening of the 7th edition of the "IMF Mountain Film Festival" on Saturday, 1st August 2026 at Rammohun Hall, 267 A.P.C. Road, Kolkata- 700009.

Join us with your friends and families for adventure, inspiration, and exploration, featuring breathtaking films from the world of mountaineering, trekking, and outdoor sports. This exclusive event will showcase 13 award-winning popular films.

We are also pleased to inform you that the "GRADUATION CEREMONY" of ANNUAL ROCK CLIMBING COURSE & ADVENTURE CAMP will be held on the same day.
This ceremony will felicitate the successful participants of the course.

We look forward to your gracious presence.

Thank you,

Debraj Dutta,
Member of GC &
Chairman- IMF East Zone,
+91 9432245695