Punjab Police Officer Conquers Himalayan Peak to Champion Anti-Drug Message

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In a remarkable display of dedication to a vital social cause, Gurjot Singh Kaler, a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) with the Punjab Police, has successfully scaled Shinkun East Peak, a towering 6,080-meter (19,948-foot) Himalayan summit in Himachal Pradesh. The challenging expedition, completed in the early hours of July 20, 2025, was undertaken with a specific and profound purpose: to spread the message of drug resistance through the “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” (War Against Drugs) campaign.

SSP Kaler’s ascent to the remote highlands of Lahaul was no ordinary feat. The final push to the summit involved an intense, continuous climb of 1,500 meters, demanding immense physical endurance and technical skill as he navigated dangerous crevasses, snow-laden ridges, and the harsh effects of extreme altitude.

Upon reaching the summit, Kaler proudly unfurled the Indian national flag alongside a banner bearing the “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” slogan. This campaign, a flagship initiative jointly launched by the Punjab Police and the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, aims to raise widespread awareness and empower communities in their collaborative fight against drug abuse.

“Climbing this peak was not just a personal goal, but a way of reminding ourselves and our youth that the fight against drugs must reach every frontier,” Kaler stated. “This banner at 6,000 meters stands for a Punjab that rises above addiction and walks the path of hope.” His gesture served as a powerful symbolic effort to carry Punjab’s message of drug resistance to one of the highest points in the Indian Himalayas.

The challenging expedition received expert guidance and logistical support from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) in Manali, under the direction of Avinash Negi. Seasoned mountaineering instructors were instrumental in fixing routes, setting ropes, and ensuring climber safety in the challenging conditions. While a larger group was part of the expedition, a core team of six climbers reached the summit, captured in a powerful photograph holding both the Tricolour and the anti-drug banner.

Currently on deputation in Manipur to supervise Special Investigation Teams probing issues arising from ethnic conflict, SSP Kaler’s commitment to public service extends beyond his regular duties. His extraordinary achievement in the Himalayas serves as an inspiring testament to the dedication of police officers who go above and beyond, not only to safeguard society on the ground but also to champion critical social causes from the highest altitudes.