Leh, July 08: Junior Under Officer (JUO) Abida Afrin, a cadet from 1 Ladakh Battalion NCC, has etched her name in history by successfully summiting Mount Everest as part of the prestigious NCC Mount Everest Expedition 2025. Representing the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate, Abida reached the peak of the world’s tallest mountain on May 18, joining a select group of cadets who accomplished the extraordinary feat.
Abida’s journey began in Leh, where she faced a highly competitive selection process led by Colonel Amit Bisht, Sena Medal. Over 2,050 NCC cadets from across India participated in the initial trials, out of which only 36 were shortlisted after rigorous physical and mental assessments conducted nationwide and at the NCC Headquarters in Delhi.Reflecting on her selection, Abida said, “Being among the top 36 was already a great honour. But the journey had just begun.”
The selected cadets underwent advanced training on Mount Abigamin (7,355 meters), where they learned vital survival skills and basic mountaineering techniques under challenging conditions. From there, only 16 cadets progressed to undertake the Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC).One of the most intense phases of preparation unfolded at the Siachen Glacier — known as one of the harshest terrains in the world. Battling freezing temperatures and treacherous conditions, the cadets were pushed to their physical and mental limits. Following this phase, the final team of 10 cadets — five boys and five girls — was selected for the Everest mission.
In March 2025, the expedition team was ceremonially flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. After arriving in Nepal, the team underwent acclimatization climbs and practiced in sub-zero conditions before embarking on their final ascent.On May 18, Abida, along with her team, successfully summited Mount Everest — a proud moment not just for her but for the entire Ladakh region.“This success is not mine alone,” said a tearful Abida. “It belongs to my battalion, my commanding officers, my family, and every single person who believed in me. It’s the spirit of the NCC — discipline, unity, and courage — that helped me reach the top.”Upon their return, the cadets were honoured in New Delhi by top military and civilian dignitaries, including the Defence Minister and the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. They were also granted an audience with the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.
Back home in Ladakh, Abida received a hero’s welcome. The community celebrated her achievement with pride, acknowledging her bravery and determination.“The love and warmth I received from Ladakh deeply moved me,” Abida shared. “Climbing Everest was not just about reaching a peak — it was about representing my region, my country, and showing what women from Ladakh are capable of. I hope to continue making my homeland proud.”
