Soul of Steel Challenge | 14 Jan 2023

A ‘Soul of Steel’ challenge was launched in Uttarakhand on 14 January which aims to test one’s high-altitude endurance.

The challenge is an initiative of CLAW Global and is being supported by the Indian Army.
The idea behind Soul of Steel is pooling of skill sets and creating a challenge that will unlock the human ability to survive, stabilise and thrive in high altitude areas.
- It is based on the lines of the ‘Ironman triathlon’ long-distance triathlon challenge in Europe, which tests an individual’s grit and endurance.
Apart from life skill training and youth development, the challenges would globally promote adventure tourism in Uttarakhand.

CLAW (Conquer Land Air Water) Global, is a team of Special Forces veterans and people with disabilities from different nationalities, religion, abilities etc., to project the power of self-belief and collective effort to create a powerful perception of ability and freedom.
- It was set up in January 2019 by Major Vivek Jacob, a para special forces officer who retired after 14 years of service after a combat skydive injury.
CLAW introduced ‘Operation Blue Freedom’ – a movement to express the powerful spirit and ability of people with disabilities.

Armed Forces Veterans Day is celebrated every year on January 14. On this day, in 1953, the First Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, Field Marshal KM Cariappa formally retired from the Services.
- He led the Indian Forces to Victory in the 1947 war against Pakistan.
- The day was first observed in 2016.