NCC Cadets Scale Mount Everest, Felicitated by Defence Minister

On June 12, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated a team of 10 young National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets—five girls and five boys—who successfully summited Mount Everest on May 18, 2025. The cadets, with an average age of 19 years, were honoured for their courage, discipline, and resilience in conquering the world’s highest peak under extreme conditions. The event, held at South Block, New Delhi, celebrated the spirit of India’s youth and the nation’s mountaineering legacy.

Why in News?

The felicitation ceremony was held to honour the NCC Mountaineering Expedition Team after their successful summit of Mount Everest. This marks the third successful Everest expedition by the NCC after 2013 and 2016. The recognition also underscores the growing capabilities of Indian youth in extreme adventure sports, and the government’s continued support for character-building initiatives under the NCC.

Key Highlights of the Expedition

• Team Composition: 10 cadets (5 boys, 5 girls), average age 19 years.
• Youngest cadet: 16 years old.
• Led by Col Amit Bisht, expedition commander.
• Included Subedar Major Balkar Singh, the first Subedar Major of the Indian Army to summit Everest.

Timeline and Training

• Flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on April 3, 2025.
• Rigorous training and acclimatization protocols followed.
• Full adherence to safety protocols and operational guidelines.
• No injuries reported during the climb—an indicator of exceptional planning and execution.

Significance of the Achievement

• Demonstrates discipline, resilience, and mental strength.
• Reinforces NCC’s role in nation-building through adventurous, character-building activities.
• Sends a strong message that no goal is too high for India’s youth.

Recognition & Awards

• Team felicitated by the Defence Minister at South Block.
• Awarded a Rs 10 lakh cheque for their accomplishment.
• Defence Minister lauded cadets for their inspirational courage and patriotism.
• Acknowledgment extended to cadets’ families and training staff.

Broader Impact and Background

• NCC Everest expeditions: Previous summits in 2013 and 2016.
• NCC’s role: Holistic development of youth—physical, emotional, social, and patriotic.
• Encourages youth to participate in national service, adventure sports, and leadership.