Full Breakdown
India Seeks High-Altitude Team to Retrieve “Green Boots” Body Identified as Dorje Morup
8/8/2026, 8:59:26 PM
India’s Planned High-Altitude Recovery Mission
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is seeking a specialist mountain-rescue team to bring down the frozen remains of Dorje Morup, a 48-year-old lance naik who died on Everest in May 1996. The operation, targeted for completion by September, would involve fixing support ropes, hauling the body down the north-face and moving it to a point where a helicopter or yaks can retrieve it. DNA testing will confirm the identity before the remains are handed to Morup’s family in Ladakh.
Background & Context
In May 1996, Morup and two teammates reached the 8,849 m summit via the north side. A blizzard on the descent killed all three. The body, long known as “Green Boots” because of its lime-coloured boots, lay at roughly 8,500 m. Recent analysis of clothing and gear has led authorities to identify the remains as Morup’s.
Data & Statistics
- Altitude of the body: about 8,500 m (? 28,000 ft).
- Environmental conditions: temperatures can drop to -40 °C; oxygen is roughly one-third of sea-level levels.
- Logistical requirements: about 10–12 summit-capable Sherpas are needed to install support ropes.
- Cost estimate: US $40,000–$80,000.
Official Statements & Responses
- An ITBP official confirmed that recent analysis supports the identification and that the force is funding the recovery.
- Tshiring Jangbu Sherpa warned that “the weather and snow conditions are going to be crucial” and noted the northern route lacks rapid helicopter evacuation.
- Pemba Ongchu Sherpa described the descent as “really tough,” emphasizing the need for a large, experienced team.
- Morup’s son, Punchok Dorjai, said the family would hold a funeral near Martyrs Park in Leh if the remains are returned and that they intend to keep the iconic green boots as a symbol of his legacy.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
The ITBP aims to have the body retrieved and back in India by September. Upon arrival, DNA testing will confirm the identification before the remains are handed to Morup’s family for final rites. The agency continues to solicit proposals from Sherpa-led rescue groups capable of executing the high-altitude operation.
