Multiple Historic Everest Summits Spark Debate

In May 2025, Mount Everest witnessed several landmark summit achievements. Four British climbers made a record-breaking rapid ascent by using xenon gas therapy to bypass traditional acclimatization, sparking debate about safety and ethics in the mountaineering community. Pratima Rai, a 19-year-old from Darjeeling, became the first girl from Bengal's NCC to summit Everest as part of an all-girls expedition, inspiring pride in her region and among cadets. CISF Lady Sub-Inspector Geeta Samota also reached the summit, marking a significant milestone for women in India's security forces and mountaineering. These accomplishments underscore evolving approaches to high-altitude climbing and highlight increasing recognition of women in the field. The feats have prompted celebration as well as discussions about innovation, tradition, and inclusivity on Everest.