Mountain rescuers risk their own lives to ensure soldiers' safety: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that while soldiers endure unmatched hardships guarding the frontiers, their safety is at times ensured by mountain rescuers who risk their own lives. TMR has repeatedly demonstrated that they are the true custodians of this spirit, he said, adding that the organisation is not limited merely to rescue operations, it is indirectly strengthening border stability, community confidence and national resilience.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that while soldiers endure unmatched hardships guarding the frontiers, their safety is at times ensured by mountain rescuers who risk their own lives. Singh visited a photo exhibition, titled, 'A Decade of Silent Service to the Nation' organised by Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR), India's pioneering high-altitude rescue organisation, at Manekshaw Centre here to commemorate 10 years of their dedicated service. Addressing a gathering, Singh commended the courage, discipline and selfless service of TMR in some of the most challenging terrains. ''Our soldiers endure unmatched hardships while guarding the frontiers. At times, even nature itself stands against them. In such circumstances, it is these mountain rescuers who risk their own lives to bring them to safety,'' he said . While they boost the morale of the soldiers, they reassure the residents of mountainous regions that they are not alone. ''Their silent yet impactful work reflects the true spirit of India,'' Singh said. The defence minister added that while machines offer assistance and systems provide support, it is the individual who possesses a deep sense of duty steps forward to save a life. TMR has repeatedly demonstrated that they are the true custodians of this spirit, he said, adding that the organisation is not limited merely to rescue operations, it is indirectly strengthening border stability, community confidence and national resilience. Chief of the Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials were also present on the occasion, the defence ministry said in a statement. TMR has led and supported rescue missions during major disasters including the Manipur Tupul landslide (2022), Sikkim Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (2023), Wayanad floods (2024) and the Dharali landslide and flash floods (2025), it said. ''Among its most notable missions have been the retrieval of remains from the 1968 AN-12 air crash near Rohtang and recovery operations for BRO workers in Mana, Uttarakhand,'' the statement said.