A team from India’s elite National Security Guard (NSG), known as the “Black Cats,” reached the summit of Mount Everest at 3:26 a.m. on Saturday. The expedition, consisting of 16 members, saw 10 climbers successfully summit the world’s highest peak after departing Kathmandu.
The NSG Everest Expedition 2026, led by Lieutenant Colonel Ram Chandra Thapa, achieved this feat in just 20 days, a relatively short duration for such an expedition. Major Akhilesh Bhatt led the climbing team, supported by veteran mountaineer Mingma Thinduk Sherpa and a group of 16 Nepali Sherpa guides.
The expedition’s rapid ascent and successful summit mark a significant accomplishment in high-altitude mountaineering. The team, under the motto “Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha” (Best Security Everywhere), also engaged in medical assistance and environmental conservation efforts during their expedition.
NSG Director General Brighu Srinivasan flagged off the expedition, emphasizing the enduring friendship between Nepal and India. The collaboration between Nepali Sherpas and Indian climbers showcased teamwork and mutual respect in conquering the challenges of Everest.
