Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, today flagged off the ‘Surya Devbhoomi Challenge 2.0’ in the Himalayan region of Garhwal, Uttarakhand. The event was inaugurated from Badrinath and is being organized by the Indian Army.
The 113-kilometre expedition covers three sacred Kedars-Kalpeshwar, Rudranath, and Tungnath. The initiative aims to promote heritage conservation, tourism, and regional development through adventure sports.
Under the Vibrant Village Programme, the event is expected to boost tourism and create employment opportunities in border villages. It also reflects the Army’s commitment to nation-building and public participation.
During the visit, General Chauhan also offered prayers at Shri Badrinath Dham and reviewed the travel arrangements for pilgrims.
Later, he visited Harsil in Uttarkashi district, where he laid the foundation stone for the Harsil Cultural and Heritage Centre. The centre is envisioned to preserve the region’s rich cultural heritage and showcase the glorious history of Garhwal, while promoting tourism.
He also interacted with residents of Vibrant Villages and appreciated their active role in nation-building and the development of border areas.
