Climber Crossing a Crevice

May 31, 1977, marked a significant achievement in Indian mountaineering history as two climbers from the Army Mountaineering Expedition reached near the summit of Kanchenjunga (28,146 ft), the highest mountain in India and the third highest in the world. Despite previous failed attempts and lives lost, the Indian Expedition of 1977, under the leadership of Col. N. Kumar, aimed for a pre-monsoon climb, departing from the traditional post-monsoon approach.

Breaking from convention, the expedition pushed through heavy snow to establish a Base Camp at 16,200 ft in March, much earlier than anticipated. After two months of intense effort and arduous climbing, Major Prem Chand and Naik N.D. Sherpa reached the summit of Kanchenjunga at 2:45 P.M. on May 31, 1977. However, as promised to the Sikkimese Lamas, they refrained from stepping on the summit itself, stopping six feet short of it and planting the National and Army flags.

The design of the 25 paise stamp depicts a climber crossing a crevice on a snow ladder, capturing the challenging terrain of the climb. The 100 paise stamp portrays the Indian National Flag placed near the summit, symbolizing the achievement and patriotism of the climbers.

This momentous event showcased the determination and skill of Indian mountaineers and highlighted their contribution to the exploration of the world’s highest peaks.