In a moment that filled both the Indian Navy and the nation with pride, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of the Naval Staff, honored Ms. Kaamya Karthikeyan for her remarkable achievements in mountaineering. The felicitation ceremony took place on January 29, 2025, and served as a testament to Kaamya’s unwavering determination and her emergence as a prodigious talent in the mountainous terrain.
At just 17 years of age, Kaamya has completed the esteemed Seven Summits Challenge, becoming the youngest female to conquer the highest peaks across all seven continents. Her inspiring journey began at the tender age of seven with a trek in the scenic landscapes of Uttarakhand, and her most recent accomplishment was reaching the summit of Mt. Vinson in Antarctica on December 24, 2024, alongside her father, Commander S Karthikeyan. This remarkable feat was officially acknowledged by the Indian Navy, which shared the news on their social media platform, highlighting Kaamya as a Class XII student at Navy Children School in Mumbai. The school also celebrated her success, expressing immense pride in her achievements.
Admiral Tripathi, who has had a distinguished military career including his tenure as the 38th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, commended Kaamya’s bravery and resilience. He emphasized that she embodies the core values upheld by the Indian Navy and expressed that her accomplishments serve as a significant source of inspiration for the youth of the nation, encouraging them to aspire towards ambitious goals and confront their challenges head-on.
The recognition of Kaamya’s achievements also reflects the Indian Navy’s ongoing commitment to nurture and celebrate talent. This aligns with the broader ‘Make in India’ initiative, which champions self-reliance, innovation, and the cultivation of indigenous talent. The Navy’s support of such individual triumphs highlights its mission to motivate and inspire not only within its ranks but throughout the entire country, particularly in fostering a spirit of perseverance and excellence among the younger generation.
Adding another layer of pride to this formidable achievement is Kaamya’s father, Commander S Karthikeyan, who serves as a submariner. His role within the naval community further deepens the connection between Kaamya’s accomplishments and the values of the Indian Navy. The gesture from the Navy in recognizing Kaamya underscores its dedication to promoting excellence and the adventurous spirit among young achievers.
This event marks a significant milestone for youth like Kaamya, whose transformation from a young trekker to an acclaimed mountaineer serves as a powerful impetus for many to pursue their aspirations relentlessly and strive for extraordinary accomplishments.
