Teimiki Sungoh honoured as Best Rescuer at National Search and Rescue Course

Shillong, March 30:The Meghalaya Sport Climbing and Mountaineering Association (MeSCMA) proudly announced that its Assistant Secretary, Mr. Teimiki Sungoh from Shangpung, West Jaintia Hills District, has been awarded the title of Best Rescuer at the prestigious Search and Rescue Course conducted by the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling.

The course, held from March 6 to 28, 2025, saw participation from 26 trainees across the country, out of which only 23 successfully completed the rigorous training. Mr. Sungoh stood out with his exceptional performance and was among the 11 trainees recognized for excellence. He will be conferred with a Grade “A” — the highest grade awarded by mountaineering institutes for search and rescue training.

Notably, Mr. Sungoh was the only participant from the North Eastern states, and his outstanding skills earned him an invitation to serve as a Guest Instructor for upcoming courses scheduled in May 2025.

Sponsored by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, the course demanded high levels of physical and mental fitness. It covered advanced rescue techniques including rope access on rocky cliffs, glacier navigation, first aid, communication protocols, and helicopter evacuation methods. The intensive training also prepares participants for search and rescue operations in extreme and inaccessible terrains, utilizing specialized high-performance equipment and strategies.

With this achievement, Mr. Sungoh is now well-equipped to assist district authorities and other organizations in emergency response and disaster situations.