Munish Sood
Mandi : MLA Sanjay Rattan Hands Over Historic License in Jwalamukhi; Paramotoring to Boost Youth Employment and Tourism
In a momentous step for Himachal Pradesh’s adventure sports sector, the state witnessed the issuance of its first-ever paramotor pilot license, awarded to Rahul Garhwal, a pioneering aerial sports enthusiast. The license was formally handed over by MLA Sanjay Rattan in a special event held at Jwalamukhi, marking a significant milestone not only in Rahul’s journey but also in the expansion of adventure tourism across the region.
What is Paramotor Flying?
Paramotoring, or powered paragliding, is a form of ultralight aviation where a pilot wears a motorized backpack (paramotor) to gain thrust, along with a paraglider wing to stay aloft. Unlike traditional paragliding, it does not require mountain slopes for takeoff—pilots can launch from open fields, plains, or even beaches.
A typical paramotor setup includes:
• A lightweight 100cc to 200cc engine, such as the Italian Vittorazi model used by Rahul.
• A flight range of up to 100 kilometers and 3-hour endurance in ideal weather.
• Enhanced safety, navigational control, and accessibility for wider terrains.
This form of adventure flying is growing rapidly in India and globally due to its portability, ease of operation, and relatively low cost compared to other aviation sports.
Rahul Garhwal: Himachal’s First Licensed Paramotor Pilot
Rahul Garhwal’s journey began in 2007 in Solang Valley, Manali, where he trained under expert pilot Buddhi Prakash. His passion and persistence led him to explore new flight possibilities, and with the support of MLA Sanjay Rattan, he launched paragliding activities in Bil Pattiyan in 2011—a site that has since evolved into a premier flying zone in Himachal.
Rahul has undertaken paramotor flights across diverse landscapes—from Rajasthan’s deserts to the snow-covered hills of Gulmarg, and the renowned Bir Billing valleys. His current flying machine, the Vittorazi 100cc paramotor, offers 18 horsepower and high fuel efficiency, enabling him to navigate long-distance flights with precision.
“This is not just Rahul’s license—this is Himachal’s new identity in adventure sports,” said MLA Sanjay Rattan. “Rahul’s achievement will inspire countless young people to take flight, both literally and economically. This is a proud day for us all.”
A New Era for Himachal’s Adventure Tourism
This landmark moment is expected to pave the way for the institutional recognition of paramotoring and paragliding in the state. With proper licensing now in place, standardized training, safety regulations, and tourism investments are expected to follow.
Key Benefits of this Initiative:
• Promotion of safe and structured aerial sports.
• Employment generation for local youth in tourism and training.
• Attraction of domestic and international adventure tourists.
• Establishment of new adventure sites and certification centers.
As Himachal Pradesh positions itself as a national hub for aerial adventure tourism, Rahul Garhwal’s historic license becomes a beacon of possibility. From the remote fields of Bil Pattiyan to the high skies of recognition, Rahul’s flight is truly symbolic—an elevation of dreams, tourism, and youth empowerment in Himachal.
