Geeta Samota: First CISF Officer to Summit Mount Everest

In a moment of national pride and individual triumph, CISF Sub-Inspector Geeta Samota etched her name in history by becoming the first officer from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to summit Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Her incredible ascent on May 19, 2025, symbolizes not only the power of perseverance but also highlights the growing contribution of Indian women in adventure sports and paramilitary excellence.

Why in News?

Geeta Samota made headlines on May 19, 2025, by becoming the first CISF officer to scale Mount Everest (8,849 meters). Her achievement marks a historic milestone for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and underscores the growing participation of women in elite mountaineering.

Key Background and Journey

• Origin: Hails from Chak village, Sikar district, Rajasthan.
• Early Life: Talented hockey player during college; a career-ending injury led her to public service and mountaineering.
• CISF Career: Joined CISF in 2011; discovered mountaineering during service.

Mountaineering Milestones

• Completed Basic Mountaineering Course (2015) at ITBP’s Auli institute – only woman in her batch.
• Advanced course completed in 2017 – first CISF officer to do so.

Became the first woman from CAPF to scale,

• Mount Satopanth (7,075 m) – 2019
• Mount Lobuche (6,119 m) – Nepal

Seven Summits Quest (2021–2022)

Scaled four continental peaks in record 6 months 27 days, becoming the fastest Indian woman to do so,

• Mount Kosciuszko (Australia)
• Mount Elbrus (Russia)
• Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
• Mount Aconcagua (Argentina)

Other Notable Feats

• Climbed 5 peaks in 3 days in Ladakh’s Rupshu region.
• Three of the five were above 6,000 meters.

Awards & Recognition

• International Women’s Day Award 2023 – Delhi Commission for Women
• Giving Wings to Dreams Award 2023 – Ministry of Civil Aviation

Support from CISF

• Trained at ABVIMAS Manali and ITBP Auli.
• Sponsored for Mount Everest Expedition.
• CISF planning a full mountaineering team expedition in 2026.

Significance

• Empowers women and youth in India.
• Highlights CAPF contributions beyond security.
• Promotes mountaineering and adventure sports in India.