Delhi, 12 June (H.S.): Rajnath Singh honored the NCC Mountaineering Expedition Team on Thursday consisting of five girls and five boys averaging 19 years, who successfully scaled Mount Everest on May 18, 2025. He presented them with a cheque of Rs 10 lakh for their achievement in challenging conditions without injuries. During the event in New Delhi, the cadets shared their experiences and challenges faced during training and the expedition. Singh praised their courage, discipline, and resilience, calling them an inspiration for the youth, highlighting that even the world’s highest peak is conquerable. He expressed confidence in the cadets’ ability to tackle future challenges with the same determination.

Singh acknowledged the NCC's role in fostering national pride and the holistic development of cadets, including their physical, mental, and emotional strength. He also appreciated the support from the cadets’ families. The expedition was the NCC's third successful endeavor on Everest, following achievements in 2013 and 2016. The team included Subedar Major Balkar Singh, the first Subedar Major of the Indian Army to reach the summit, and the youngest cadet was 16 years old. The expedition, flagged off by Singh on April 3, 2025, adhered to strict safety protocols throughout.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar