# Up You Go!

## Overview
The chapter “Up You Go!” is based on the real diary entries of Sangeeta Arora, who participated in a mountaineering training camp in Uttarkashi. It introduces children to the challenges and joys of mountain climbing, responsibility of leadership, overcoming fears, and the inspiring journey of Bachhendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest.

## Key Topics Covered

### 1. The Mountaineering Camp Experience
- The author was part of a 21-day mountaineering camp organized by Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
- Participants included teachers and women from various institutions.
- Trekking with heavy rucksacks led to blisters and fatigue, but the experience built resilience and courage.

### 2. Role of a Group Leader
- The author was unexpectedly made the leader of Group No. 7.
- Responsibilities included helping others, staying behind to support, finding rest spots, arranging food, and caring for the unwell.
- Emphasis was placed on discipline and accountability.

### 3. River Crossing Adventure
- A thick rope tied across a river was used for crossing.
- The author was initially afraid but managed to cross with encouragement and safety gear.
- The experience instilled confidence and pride in overcoming fear.

### 4. Rock Climbing and Rapelling
- The team climbed a 90-meter rock wall using pegs and ropes.
- Techniques like finding proper "holds" and maintaining a 90° angle posture were taught.
- “Rapelling” was introduced as the technique to safely descend a rock.

### 5. Communication and Language Barriers
- Group members were from various northeastern states, creating language barriers.
- The author could not communicate with Khondonbi from Mizoram, but they bonded through shared experiences.

### 6. Getting Lost and Regrouping
- Khondonbi and the author got separated while searching for food.
- Miscommunication with a local woman led to confusion.
- Whistling and torch signals helped them reunite with their group.

### 7. Meeting Bachhendri Pal
- Bachhendri Pal visited their camp before her Mount Everest expedition.
- She participated in campfire singing and dancing, leaving a memorable impression.

### 8. Snow Camp and Tent Life
- Tents were pitched using double-layered plastic sheets to insulate from cold.
- Meals were cooked using makeshift chulhas.
- Sleeping bags filled with feathers were used to stay warm.

### 9. Fun in the Snow
- The group experienced snowfall and enjoyed playing with snowballs.
- They trekked further to 2700 metres amidst snowy landscapes.

### 10. Final Day and Award
- On the last night, each group performed around the campfire.
- The author was surprised to receive the “Best Performance Award” from Brigadier Gyan Singh.

### 11. Bachhendri Pal’s Journey to Mount Everest
- As a young girl, she once climbed a 4000-metre mountain peak on a school trip.
- Trained at Nehru Institute of Mountaineering under Brigadier Gyan Singh.
- In 1984, she was part of an 18-member Everest expedition team.
- Survived a dangerous snowstorm at 7300 metres.
- On 23rd May, 1984, she became the first Indian woman and fifth woman globally to reach the Everest summit.

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## New Terms and Definitions

| Term | Simple Definition |
|------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Rucksack | A large backpack used for carrying supplies while trekking |
| Blister | A swelling on the skin caused by friction, often from walking or climbing |
| Peg/Piton | Metal spike used to secure a rope to rocks |
| Sling | A loop or hook used to tie a person to a rope for climbing |
| Rapelling | A way of coming down a rock face using a rope |
| Chulha | A simple, traditional stove made from stones or clay used for cooking |
| Sleeping bag | A warm, padded bag used for sleeping outdoors, often filled with feathers |
| Mount Everest | The highest mountain in the world, located in Nepal |
| Snow storm | A severe weather condition with strong winds and heavy snowfall |
| Summit | The highest point of a mountain |

## Practice Questions

### Easy (3)

1. **Who was the leader of Group No. 7 in the mountaineering camp?**
**Answer:** The author, Sangeeta Arora, was made the leader of Group No. 7.
**Explanation:** Brigadier Gyan Singh assigned her the leadership role.

2. **What did the campers use to cross the river?**
**Answer:** A thick rope tied across the river and a sling.
**Explanation:** They used safety gear to cross through the icy river.

3. **Name the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest.**
**Answer:** Bachhendri Pal.
**Explanation:** She climbed Everest on 23rd May 1984.

### Medium (2)

4. **What responsibilities does a group leader have during a mountain expedition?**
**Answer:** Helping others, staying at the back, caring for the sick, arranging food, and accepting responsibility.
**Explanation:** These duties ensure the safety and unity of the group.

5. **What is rapelling and why is it used?**
**Answer:** Rapelling is a method of coming down a steep rock face using ropes.
**Explanation:** It allows climbers to descend safely from high places.

### Difficult (3)

6. **Describe the emotions the author felt when she crossed the river.**
**Answer:** She felt scared, cold, and panicked initially, but later proud and confident.
**Explanation:** Her fear turned into confidence after completing the challenge.

7. **How did the team manage to sleep in the snow camp?**
**Answer:** They used double-layered plastic tents and sleeping bags filled with feathers for warmth.
**Explanation:** The layers trapped air for insulation and kept them warm.

8. **What was the significance of the national flag for Bachhendri Pal on the summit?**
**Answer:** It symbolized national pride and her achievement as the first Indian woman on Everest.
**Explanation:** She pitched the flag and took photographs to mark the moment.

### Very Difficult (2)

9. **Compare the leadership shown by Brigadier Gyan Singh and Sangeeta Arora.**
**Answer:** Brigadier Singh was assertive and motivational, pushing participants beyond fear; Sangeeta learned to be responsible and supportive of her group.
**Explanation:** Both led by example, with Brigadier as a mentor and Sangeeta as a learner-leader.

10. **What role did courage and communication play in the mountaineering experience?**
**Answer:** Courage helped overcome physical and mental challenges; communication, even without a shared language, built team spirit and ensured safety.
**Explanation:** The team used signals, whistling, and gestures to stay united.