In a landmark achievement showcasing unmatched grit and endurance, Sub-Inspector Geeta Samota of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has successfully scaled Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,849 metres, on the morning of May 19.
She became the first CISF woman to summit Mount Everest. On May 19, she climbed Mount Everest – an achievement that is being celebrated across the country.
Geeta’s historic summit marks not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for the CISF and India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Her journey to the top of the world reflects years of rigorous preparation, overcoming odds, and breaking barriers.
Early Life
Hailing from Chak village in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, Geeta was born into a modest family and is one of four sisters. She grew up in a traditional environment but always harbored ambitions of pushing beyond societal limitations. Initially a promising hockey player in college, an injury redirected her toward a new challenge – mountaineering.
Her Journey After Joining CISF
After joining the CISF in 2011, Geeta noticed the absence of a mountaineering tradition in the force. Spotting an opportunity, she trained at the ITBP’s mountaineering institute in Auli, becoming the only woman in her batch. She later completed an advanced course in 2017, setting the stage for greater achievements.
In 2019, she became the first woman from any CAPF to summit Mount Satopanth and Mount Lobuche. After her 2021 Everest attempt was canceled, she pivoted to the Seven Summits Challenge – aiming to climb the highest peaks on each continent.
Between 2021 and early 2022, Geeta successfully summited Mount Kosciuszko (Australia), Mount Elbrus (Russia), Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), and Mount Aconcagua (Argentina) — completing these four climbs in just six months and 27 days, making her the fastest Indian woman to do so. She also set a record by climbing five peaks in Ladakh’s Rupshu region in three days.
With the successful Everest summit now added to her list, Geeta moves closer to completing all seven summits. The CISF has been a strong supporter of her expeditions, providing logistical and financial assistance throughout her journey.
For her remarkable achievements, she has received the International Women’s Day Award 2023 from the Delhi Commission for Women and the “Giving Wings to Dreams” Award from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Speaking after her Everest triumph, Geeta said, “Mountains are a great leveller. They don’t discriminate. Only those with true determination can conquer them.” Her success sends a powerful message to young girls across the country: dream big, work hard, and never give up.
The CISF announced that it plans to form and send a full Mountaineering Team to Everest in 2026, inspired by Geeta’s trailblazing journey. The Director General and all ranks of the CISF have extended their heartfelt congratulations, calling her accomplishment a beacon of inspiration for the entire nation.
About CISF
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is one of India’s Central Armed Police Forces. It plays a vital role in safeguarding critical national infrastructure including airports, nuclear and space installations, metro systems, and large public sector undertakings, as well as select private sector enterprises. The force is also deployed for VIP security and disaster response.
