Raksha Mantri Lauds NCC Team for Conquering Everest
On June 12, 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh honoured a team of 10 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets for conquering Mount Everest. The group, made up of five girls and five boys, reached the summit on May 18, 2025. Their courage, grit, and flawless execution helped them achieve this milestone without injuries.
Col Amit Bisht led the expedition, which tested the physical and mental limits of the cadets. At the felicitation ceremony held at South Block in New Delhi, Raksha Mantri handed over a cheque of ₹10 lakh. He praised their spirit and determination.
Cadets shared personal stories of training, the mental battles they fought, and the strategies they used to stay safe. Shri Rajnath Singh appreciated their effort and said they had shown the world that no peak is too high for Indian youth.
“You’ve proved that India’s youth can climb any peak with courage and commitment,” he said.
Third Everest Summit by NCC
NCC successfully completed its third Everest expedition, following earlier triumphs in 2013 and 2016. The team included Subedar Major Balkar Singh—the first Subedar Major of the Indian Army to summit Mount Everest. A 16-year-old cadet also climbed the peak, showing that age is no barrier to ambition.
Raksha Mantri had flagged off the expedition on April 3, 2025. The team followed strict safety measures throughout the climb, ensuring every member returned safely.
NCC: Shaping a Resilient Generation
Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the NCC’s role in shaping India’s youth. Through its programs, NCC builds discipline, self-reliance, and national pride. He commended the cadets for proving the effectiveness of this training and thanked their families for their constant support.
DG NCC Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh and other dignitaries joined the celebration.
An Inspiring Message to the Nation
This achievement is more than a personal milestone for the cadets. It represents the dreams, strength, and potential of a rising generation. As India continues to grow, these young achievers remind us that with courage and discipline, nothing is impossible.