IISc Professor Arpita Patra Summits Highest Volcanic Peaks of Four Continents

IN NEWS: IISc Professor Arpita Patra Summits Highest Volcanic Peaks of Four Continents

ANALYSIS

• Context:
  Arpita Patra, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, achieved the rare feat of summiting the highest volcanic peaks of four continents within a year. Her latest expedition culminated on October 24, 2025, when she scaled Pico de Orizaba in Mexico, the highest volcanic peak in North America.
• Achievements:
  Prof. Patra has successfully climbed the following peaks:
  1. Mt. Kilimanjaro (5,895 m) – Africa (July 2024)
  2. Mt. Elbrus (5,642 m) – Europe (August 2024)
  3. Mt. Giluwe (4,367 m) – Oceania (May 2025)
  4. Mt. Pico de Orizaba (5,636 m) – North America (October 2025)
• Journey & Preparation:
  • Began her mountaineering journey in 2024.
  • Completed a mountaineering course at the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sport, Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Followed a four-hour daily fitness routine, including running, cycling, swimming, and strength training.
  • Described Pico de Orizaba as her most technically demanding climb, involving glacier travel and a steep 45-degree incline.
• Significance:
  • Demonstrates the increasing participation of Indian women in adventure sports and mountaineering.
  • Highlights the role of academic professionals balancing research and physically challenging pursuits.
  • Her achievement serves as an inspiration for youth, showcasing determination, discipline, and passion for lifelong learning.
• Personal Background:
  • Prof. Patra hails from a small village in West Bengal.
  • She described mountaineering as a childhood dream delayed by economic and academic constraints.
  • Associated with IISc’s Department of Computer Science and Automation since 2014.

STATIC PART / BACKGROUND

• Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru:
  • Established in 1909 by Jamsetji Tata, the Government of India, and the Maharaja of Mysore.
  • Premier institute for advanced scientific and technological research in India.
• About Pico de Orizaba:
  • Also known as Citlaltépetl, it is the tallest mountain in Mexico and the third highest peak in North America.
  • Classified as a dormant stratovolcano.
• National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Established under the Ministry of Defence in 2013.
  • Offers training in mountaineering, aero, and aqua adventure disciplines.

Updated – 29 October 2025 ; 12:17 PM | News Source: The Hindu