In a remarkable testament to courage, endurance, and vision beyond her years, Saanvi Sood, a 9-year-old mountaineer, has been awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 in the Innovation category. She has etched her name in history as the youngest Asian girl to summit Mount Kilimanjaro and to reach Everest Base Camp, breaking age and gender barriers in high-altitude trekking.
Saanvi’s mountaineering journey began at an age when most children are still learning to ride bicycles. With rigorous training, a fearless spirit, and strong family support, she scaled Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (5,895 m), and trekked to Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,364 m in the Himalayas — all before turning 10.
Her achievements not only stunned the mountaineering community but also inspired young children across India to dream big and challenge themselves.
Saanvi’s recognition in the Innovation category of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar highlights her pioneering spirit and trailblazing determination to push boundaries traditionally reserved for adults. Her courage to venture into extreme terrains at such a young age has been seen as a symbol of breaking societal norms and redefining what’s possible for young girls in India.
Presented by the President of India, the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is the nation’s highest civilian honour for children under 18. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Saanvi’s feat, saying, “She represents the unstoppable spirit of young India. Her climbs are not just over mountains but over stereotypes.”
Not one to stop at summits, Saanvi has expressed her dreams of one day climbing Mount Everest and taking part in global conservation efforts for mountains and nature. She is also passionate about motivating children, especially girls, to pursue outdoor adventure and physical fitness.
With her name already in record books and her journey just beginning, Saanvi Sood is climbing not just mountains, but history itself.
