Indian Navy Honors Kaamya Karthikeyan's Landmark South Pole Ski Achievement
The Indian Navy has extended its congratulations to Kaamya Karthikeyan, an 18-year-old alumna of Navy Children School and daughter of a naval officer, for her historic achievement of becoming the youngest Indian and the second-youngest woman globally to ski to the South Pole.
Kaamya accomplished this remarkable feat on December 27, 2025. She faced some of the most extreme conditions on the planet, enduring temperatures as low as –30°C, powerful winds, and challenging Antarctic terrain. During her expedition, she skied approximately 60 nautical miles, equivalent to nearly 115 kilometers, from 89° South to the Geographic South Pole, while towing a sled carrying all her expedition gear.
This achievement is a testament to her grit, endurance, and mental strength, placing her among the elite polar explorers worldwide. The Indian Navy praised her bravery and perseverance, emphasizing that her success reflects the values of discipline, resilience, and determination that the naval community strives to cultivate.
Kaamya, a gifted mountaineer and polar adventurer, is now pursuing her goal to become the youngest person to complete the Explorers Grand Slam, a prestigious challenge that requires climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents and skiing to both the North and South Poles.
Her successful South Pole expedition is a significant step in this quest and serves as a source of inspiration for the youth of India. The Indian Navy has offered its best wishes for her future endeavors, expressing confidence that Kaamya will continue to achieve new milestones and bring honor to the country.
