Sirmaur girl scripts history, scales Mount Everest at 19

In a remarkable feat that has brought pride to Himachal Pradesh and the entire nation, 19-year-old Kritika Sharma from the remote village of Gattadhar in Sangrah subdivision of Sirmaur district has successfully scaled the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.

On May 18, Kritika unfurled the Tricolour, the NCC flag and her college’s insignia—Sri Guru Gobind Singh Government College, Paonta Sahib—at the summit, overcoming extreme weather and life-threatening conditions. With this, she has possibly become the youngest Indian woman NCC cadet to conquer Everest and the first and youngest from Himachal Pradesh to do so.

Her inclusion in the elite mountaineering expedition came after rigorous written tests, interviews and strenuous physical trials, where she emerged as the youngest among a team comprising 10 NCC cadets, four officers, two Junior Commissioned Officers, one Girl Cadet Instructor and 10 Non-Commissioned Officers. The expedition was flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh from New Delhi on April 3.

A display of rare courage and commitment, Kritika’s ascent has earned her widespread admiration. Even experienced Sherpas from Nepal praised the endurance and resilience of the NCC team, highlighting Kritika’s youthful determination amidst treacherous terrains and sub-zero temperatures.

What makes her achievement even more special is her humble background. Coming from a village where mountaineering is an unfamiliar concept, Kritika’s success is a shining example of how grit, discipline, and self-belief can take one to unimaginable heights.

Speaking to The Tribune, her father Bharat Sharma, overcome with emotion, said, “This is the proudest moment of my life. I never imagined that my daughter would one day hoist the Indian flag on Mount Everest. There was fear, yes, but we always believed in her determination.”

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended his congratulations, lauding Kritika’s indomitable spirit. “She has set a shining example for the youth of the state and the country. Her success reinforces that with willpower and dedication, even the highest of mountains can be conquered,” he said, wishing her and the team the very best for future endeavours.

Himachal Tribune