Shimla, March 13:
Kritika Sharma, daughter of Gattadhar village in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is on an extraordinary mission—to hoist the Indian tricolor on Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Her journey from the remote hills of Giripar to the towering slopes of Everest is not just a personal triumph but an inspiring milestone for daughters across India.
A student and National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadet at a college in Paonta Sahib, Kritika is the only representative from Himachal, Haryana, and Punjab selected among 10 cadets nationwide for the prestigious Everest expedition. Out of a pool of over 17 lakh NCC cadets, Kritika’s selection stands as a glowing testament to her grit, passion, and perseverance.
The expedition, led by Colonel Amit Bisht, comprises 19 mountaineers including 5 girls and 5 boys from the NCC, alongside experienced officers and support staff. Kritika’s inclusion in this elite team came after a rigorous selection process, including a written test, personal interview, and intense physical assessments.
The journey began in Delhi on March 11 with initial physical training. On April 3, the Defense Minister of India officially flagged off the team, and by April 5, the cadets had arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal. From there, they proceeded to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest trail, and have now begun their trek to Everest Base Camp.
During the lead-up to the climb, the cadets also had the honor of meeting key dignitaries such as the Chief of Defense Staff, the Army Chief, India’s Ambassador to Nepal, the Director General of NCC, and senior bureaucrats—further cementing the national significance of this mission.
Kritika’s father, Bharat Sharma, expressed immense pride: “My daughter’s name among the top 10 NCC cadets heading to Everest is a moment of glory not just for our family but for the entire state.”
From a humble village to the slopes of the Himalayas, Kritika’s story is a powerful reminder that dreams have no boundaries. Her spirit embodies the mantra: “Daughters are not delicate, they are determined.” She is not just climbing a mountain—she’s elevating hopes and aspirations for countless young women.
The expedition is expected to conclude with the team’s return to India on June 3. Until then, the nation watches with pride and prays for the safe and successful ascent of Kritika Sharma and her team.
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