( Reported By KJ Srivatsan )
From a small village in Rajasthan to the summit of Everest, Geeta’s journey is a symbol of indomitable willpower.
Sikar
When on the morning of May 19, CISF Sub-Inspector Geeta Samota set foot on the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (8,849 meters), it was not just a mountaineering expedition, it became a historic moment reflecting the boundless strength, courage, and dedication of India’s daughters.
Coming from a small Chak village in Sikar district, Geeta achieved a feat that mountaineers across the world dream of. Belonging to a modest family with four sisters, Geeta was raised in a rural environment. In childhood, when she used to hear stories of boys’ achievements, a desire would arise in her heart too, to do something that would show the world that girls are no less than anyone
Journey from Sports to Mountaineering
In her college days, Geeta was a talented hockey player, but a serious injury put a stop to her sports career. This setback became a new beginning for her. After joining CISF in 2011, Geeta set her new goal in mountaineering. From mountaineering training at ITBP Auli to completing advanced training in 2017, she continued to prove herself at every step.
Fast Steps Toward ‘Seven Summits’
In 2019, by climbing Mount Satopanth and Mount Lobuche, Geeta earned the honor of becoming the first woman mountaineer of CAPF. Then began her “Seven Summits” mission, an expedition to climb the highest peaks of the seven continents. In just six months and 27 days, she conquered four continental peaks- Kosciuszko, Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, and Aconcagua. She became the fastest Indian woman to complete the expedition at this pace.
Conquering Rupshu’s Peak
By climbing five peaks within three days in the Rupshu region of Ladakh, she once again proved that for her, “impossible” is just a word. These included three peaks over 6,000 meters and two over 5,000 meters. With this, she once again became the fastest woman mountaineer.
Awards And Recognition
Geeta has received several national honours like the “International Women’s Day Award 2023” and the “Giving Wings to Dreams Award 2023.” She believes, “Mountains don’t see gender, they value only courage and determination.” This mindset not only inspires future generations but also gives a new direction to societal thinking about women.
CISF’s Next Preparation
Inspired by Geeta’s success, CISF is now planning to send a fully dedicated mountaineering team to Mount Everest in 2026. This will be an unprecedented example of courage, dedication, and organizational confidence.
