Internationally renowned mountaineer Devidutta Panda from Odisha is set to be honoured with the MacGregor Medal, one of India’s most prestigious accolades in the field of exploration and reconnaissance.
The award ceremony will take place at the United Service Institution (USI) in New Delhi on April 16, where Panda will be felicitated by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan. This recognition celebrates Panda’s exceptional contributions to land adventure sports and exploratory missions.
“I feel honoured and deeply humbled to receive this historic award, which has previously been bestowed upon legendary adventurers like Col. Narendra ‘Bull’ Kumar,” said Panda, reflecting on the legacy of the medal.
With an impressive record of 16 major expeditions, Panda has scaled prominent peaks across Asia, Europe, and Africa, including Mount Everest. His accomplishments have established him as a key figure in Indian adventure sports and mountaineering.
Instituted to recognize outstanding service in military intelligence and exploration, the MacGregor Medal is awarded for missions of national significance, such as reconnaissance, surveying, and daring operations—especially those conducted in hostile or difficult terrain. While it was historically given to both civilian and military personnel, post-1947, the award has been largely reserved for members of the armed forces.
In rare instances, civilians like Panda, whose work aligns with national interest and adventure excellence, are selected for the medal—making his achievement all the more remarkable.
This honour not only celebrates Panda’s personal achievements but also shines a spotlight on Odisha’s growing role in India’s adventure and exploration landscape.
