Rupamoni Gorh became the first woman from Assam to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 23, 2026 [1].
This achievement marks a historic milestone for the state of Assam and highlights the growing role of women in high-altitude mountaineering and paramilitary operations. The summit was achieved as part of a specialized all-women expedition organized by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
Gorh, a 26-year-old [2] officer of the ITBP, hails from Lakhimpur, Assam [3]. Her ascent of the world's highest peak, located on the border between Nepal and China, serves as a demonstration of women's capabilities in extreme environments [3].
The ITBP expedition was designed to showcase the strength and endurance of its female officers, an effort intended to bring pride to the people of Assam [3]. By reaching the peak, Gorh has broken a long-standing barrier for female climbers from her home region.
The journey to the summit involved navigating the treacherous terrain of the Himalayas, where weather and oxygen levels present constant risks. Gorh's success is the culmination of rigorous training and the support of the all-women team [3].
Local reports said the achievement is being celebrated across Lakhimpur and the wider state as a symbol of empowerment for young women pursuing careers in the security forces [3].
“Rupamoni Gorh became the first woman from Assam to reach the summit of Mount Everest.”
Gorh's ascent is more than a personal athletic achievement; it represents a strategic effort by the ITBP to enhance the visibility and prestige of women within India's paramilitary forces. By successfully scaling the highest peak in the world, Gorh provides a tangible precedent for female officers from Northeast India, potentially influencing recruitment and leadership trajectories within the border police.
