New Delhi, July 23: In an extraordinary feat of courage and endurance, Major Kavitha Vasupalli, VSM, Medical Officer in the Indian Army, has etched her name in history as the only woman participant in a world-record-setting Brahmaputra River Rafting Expedition—covering a staggering 1040 kilometers in 28 days, from Gelling village near the Indo-Tibetan border to Hatsingimari near the Indo-Bangladesh border.
A native of Metturu village, Srikakulam District (Andhra Pradesh), Maj Kavitha braved extreme challenges including Grade 4+ rapids, freezing waters, and multiple raft flips. Undeterred by nature’s fury, she demonstrated not just physical resilience but unshakable mental strength, rising stronger each time—soaked, bruised, but never broken.
This wasn’t just a river expedition—it was a battle against nature’s wildest forces, against fatigue, fear, and doubt. It demanded not only peak physical fitness but also immense emotional and mental endurance. And in the heart of it all stood Maj Kavitha—a healer, a soldier, a warrior—holding her paddle tight and her spirit tighter.
Her participation is a beacon of inspiration for countless women across the country, especially from rural India, proving that courage knows no gender and grit knows no boundaries. From saving lives on mountain peaks to conquering one of the wildest rivers in the world, Maj Kavitha represents the fearless spirit of the new Indian soldier—bold, compassionate, and unstoppable.
In recognition of her indomitable spirit and selfless service, she was conferred the Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day 2025 and awarded the COAS Commendation Card for her lifesaving medical actions during the Mt. Gorichen summit.
This historic expedition was led by Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal, SM, VSM, a legendary adventurer, Tenzing Norgay Awardee and three-time Everest summiteer. As the Director of the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), his leadership transformed the journey into not just a record-breaking achievement, but a landmark in India’s and World’s adventure .
