In a landmark achievement, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) successfully completed its first-ever all-women international mountaineering expedition to Mount Everest, marking a proud moment in India’s adventure and security history.
The 14-member expedition team, including 11 women climbers and three technical/support staff, scaled the 8,848-metre peak on May 21, 2026, through the challenging South Col route from Nepal. The first summit was recorded at 6:52 am, after which all climbers reached the top.
The expedition endured extreme Himalayan conditions in the notorious “Death Zone” above 8,000 metres, facing sub-zero temperatures, low oxygen levels, and treacherous ice walls. Despite these challenges, the team displayed exceptional endurance, discipline, and teamwork.
The mission was flagged off from ITBP headquarters in New Delhi on April 19, 2026, as part of the force’s continued focus on high-altitude operational excellence and adventure training.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the team, praising their courage and commitment to the motto “Nation Before Self.” Leaders across states, including Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, also hailed the achievement as a symbol of Nari Shakti and national pride.
Among the climbers, Rupamoni Gorh became the first woman from Assam to scale Mount Everest, inspiring youth across the state. Other climbers hailed from Ladakh, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, and Kargil, showcasing India’s diverse representation.
As part of the “Clean Himalaya – Save Glacier” campaign, the team also collected non-biodegradable waste from the Everest region, reinforcing ITBP’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
With this feat, ITBP has now completed over 230 mountaineering expeditions, including five successful Everest summits, strengthening its legacy as one of India’s leading high-altitude forces.
