During a visit to the institute's campus in Dirang, the governor encouraged the institute to take steps that would place the state prominently on the global mountaineering map.

He also stressed that the institute should aim to expand its reach by welcoming mountaineering enthusiasts from across the country and exploring opportunities to include international climbers in its expeditions, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

Highlighting the state's growing reputation in mountaineering, Parnaik noted that Arunachal Pradesh has already produced 16 climbers who have successfully summited Mount Everest.

He urged the institute to build on this accomplishment and continue promoting a culture of adventure while nurturing the next generation of skilled mountaineers.

Established in 2013 under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, the National Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (NIMAS) is the first institution in the country to offer integrated adventure training across land, air and water.

The institute conducts certified courses in activities such as mountaineering, mountain biking, scuba diving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, and paramotoring.