In a groundbreaking achievement, Kaamya Karthikeyan, an 18-year-old daughter of a naval officer and an alumnus of the Navy Children School (NCS), has made history by becoming the youngest Indian and the second-youngest woman globally to ski to the South Pole. Her remarkable feat, accomplished on December 27, 2025, showcases not only her adventurous spirit but also her unwavering determination and mental resilience in the face of extreme challenges.
Kaamya embarked on this audacious expedition by battling formidable conditions, including frigid temperatures that plummeted to –30°C, fierce winds, and navigating treacherous Antarctic landscapes. She skied approximately 60 nautical miles (nearly 115 km) from 89° South to the Geographic South Pole, all while pulling a sled loaded with her essential gear for the journey.
The Indian Navy has recognized her monumental accomplishment, highlighting it as a testament to grit and endurance. In a statement, they emphasized that her achievement embodies the core values of discipline, resilience, and determination that the naval service aims to instill within its community.
In addition to her South Pole expedition, Kaamya is an accomplished mountaineer and polar adventurer, currently aspiring to achieve the title of the youngest individual to complete the Explorers Grand Slam. This challenge entails climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents and skiing to both the North and South Poles, reflecting her deep commitment to adventure and exploration.
Her successful venture to the South Pole stands as a significant milestone in her quest and serves as a powerful source of inspiration for India’s youth. The Indian Navy has extended its heartfelt wishes for her future endeavors, expressing optimism that she will continue to break boundaries and instill national pride through her extraordinary pursuits.
