Nongpoh, May 22: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has scripted history after its first-ever all-women Mount Everest expedition successfully reached the summit of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,848.86 metres), via the South Col Route.
According to ITBP officials, the expedition achieved the summit on May 21, 2026, with the first team members reaching the top at approximately 6:52 AM. Remarkably, all 11 women climbers who were part of the expedition successfully completed the ascent, marking a historic milestone for the paramilitary force and the country.
The expedition was led by Assistant Commandant Bhanita Timungpi from Assam and was officially flagged off on April 19, 2026, from the ITBP Headquarters in New Delhi by ITBP Director General Shatrujeet Kapur.
The expedition was organised by the ITBP, which is widely recognised for its expertise in high-altitude operations and deployment along India’s Himalayan borders. The successful summit is being hailed as a major achievement for women in uniformed services and Indian mountaineering.
In a statement shared on social media, ITBP described the expedition as a “proud moment for India,” while congratulating the women climbers for their determination, courage, and endurance in conquering the world’s tallest mountain.
The team climbed Mount Everest through the South Col Route from the Nepal side, considered one of the most challenging and demanding routes due to extreme weather conditions, avalanches, and low oxygen levels at high altitude.
Officials stated that the women personnel underwent extensive training in high-altitude survival, mountain rescue, snow and ice craft, and endurance preparation before undertaking the expedition.
The achievement has drawn widespread praise online, with many describing it as an inspiring example of women’s empowerment and India’s growing presence in adventure sports and high-altitude mountaineering.
Mount Everest, standing at 8,848.86 metres above sea level, remains one of the most dangerous and challenging peaks in the world, requiring climbers to endure harsh terrain, freezing temperatures, and severe oxygen shortages.
The successful completion of the expedition by all 11 women climbers is now being regarded as a landmark chapter in the history of the ITBP and Indian mountaineering.
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