SRINAGAR: Cadet Mohit Knathia from Government Degree College (GDC) Kathua has achieved a historic milestone by successfully scaling Mount Everest as part of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Everest Expedition 2025. He reached the summit of the world’s highest peak, standing at 8,848.86 metres, on 18 May.
Representing both GDC Kathua and the 4 J&K NCC Battalion, Cadet Knathia was the sole participant from Jammu and Kashmir in the ten-member national team selected through a rigorous nationwide process. His selection followed months of strenuous physical training, culminating in preparatory climbs of Mount Abi Gamin and a winter camp at Siachen Base Camp under the supervision of the Army Mountaineering Institute.
The expedition was formally flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on April 3, 2025. Cadet Knathia braved extreme altitudes and severe weather to unfurl the Indian National Flag and the NCC Flag at the summit, symbolising patriotism, discipline, and courage.
This achievement marks the third successful Everest ascent by an NCC team, following earlier missions in 2013 and 2016.
Prof. Seema Mir, Principal of GDC Kathua, lauded Mohit’s feat, describing it as “a beacon of inspiration” for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. She also praised Lt. (Dr.) Daya Ram, the Associate NCC Officer at the college, for his consistent mentorship and support.
The college extended heartfelt appreciation to Col. Kuldeep Kachroo and Subedar Shyam Chand of the 4 J&K NCC Battalion for their role in preparing and guiding Cadet Mohit Knathia throughout his mountaineering journey.
