KATHUA: In a momentous achievement that has brought pride to the Government Degree College (GDC) Kathua and the 4 J&K NCC Battalion, Cadet Mohit Knathia has successfully scaled Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,848.86 meters. He reached the summit on May 18, 2025, as a member of the prestigious National Cadet Corps (NCC) Everest Expedition 2025.

Cadet Knathia, representing GDC Kathua, was one of only ten cadets selected from across the nation through an intensive selection process. His remarkable endurance, commitment, and rigorous training earned him the distinction of being the sole representative from Jammu & Kashmir on this historic mission.

The expedition was officially flagged off by the Raksha Mantri, Rajnath Singh, on April 3, 2025. Prior to the ascent, the team underwent exhaustive training, including a preparatory climb of Mount Abi Gamin and a winter camp at the Siachen Base Camp, under the expert guidance of the Army Mountaineering Institute.

Braving extreme conditions and treacherous terrain, Cadet Mohit Knathia reached the summit and proudly unfurled the National Flag alongside the NCC Flag, embodying the spirit of courage, discipline, and patriotism. This marks the third successful Everest summit by an NCC team, following similar triumphs in 2013 and 2016.

The College Principal Prof. Seema Mir expressed immense pride in Mohit's accomplishment, stating, "Cadet Mohit Knathia has become a beacon of inspiration for youth of Jammu & Kashmir. His perseverance and spirit reflect the core values of the NCC and our institution." She also commended Lt. (Dr.) Daya Ram, Associate NCC Officer at GDC Kathua, for his unwavering guidance and mentorship that significantly contributed to this success.

The college also extended sincere gratitude to Col. Kuldeep Kachroo and Subedar Shyam Chand, Training JCO of the 4 J&K NCC Battalion, for their instrumental role in shaping Cadet Mohit's journey through their intensive training and support.