The Indian Army will conduct an expedition to the sacred Topo Gone peak in Arunachal Pradesh early next year. Officials informed on Monday that the expedition will begin on January 19 and will continue till January 24. The Army is organising the expedition together with the Galo Welfare Society (GWS), a leading community organisation of the Galo tribe.
Topo Gone is located in Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh, near the McMahon Line. The peak lies at an elevation of about 2,900 metres. People from the Galo community regard Topo Gone as a holy place. It features in several stories, folklore and folktales that have been passed down from earlier generations.
According to an official familiar with the plan, a 24-member team has been selected for the expedition. The team will include four women. The selection has been done jointly by the Army and the GWS. The organisers said the expedition aims to promote peace, unity, and cooperation between the local community and the armed forces. The organisers also said it is an opportunity to encourage youth participation in outdoor activities, adventure sports, and cultural awareness. 
The Army and the GWS have been holding meetings over the past weeks to prepare for the expedition. The teams are discussing logistics, safety arrangements, equipment, and weather conditions. Officials said that the cooperation between the Army and the Galo people is important because the route to the peak requires local knowledge and experience. The Army will provide technical assistance for navigation, safety, and medical support along the route.
Topo Gone is not easily accessible. The terrain is steep and rugged. The weather in Shi Yomi district is unpredictable, especially in winter months. Snowfall, strong winds, and low temperatures are common in this high-altitude region. Because of these factors, the Army has been planning carefully to ensure that the expedition proceeds safely.
