Lauding the para-military personnel, Chidambaram said the "physical achievements" accomplished by them was commendable and reflected the strength of the force.
Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel had undertaken the adventure activities as part of their golden jubilee celebration of raising this year. It was raised in 1962 in the wake of Chinese aggression.
"Mountaineering and river rafting are truly a dangerous sport. They promote leadership and camaraderie and instill confidence and a sense of responsibility. They also help develop ability to work efficiently in extremely adverse conditions," Chidambaram said.
ITBP Director General Ranjit Sinha said with both the successful missions under their belt a "glorious chapter" has been added to the history of the force.
The Everest expedition team presented the traditional pick-axe to the Home Minister, while the Ganga rafting team gifted Chidambaram with a bottle of holy water they had collected during their voyage spanning 58 days.
Chidambaram also lauded the force for working in hostile conditions along the 3,488-km Sino-Indian frontier.
