Amaravati | In a proud moment for Andhra Pradesh and the Indian Armed Forces, Governor S. Abdul Nazeer felicitated Major Kavitha Vasupalli, a medical officer in the Indian Army, for her extraordinary accomplishment as the only woman to successfully complete a grueling 1,040-kilometre rafting expedition on the Brahmaputra River.
Only Woman on 10-Member Army Rafting Team
Hailing from rural Srikakulam, Major Kavitha, an officer in the Indian Army Medical Corps, etched her name in the World Book of Records (London) for her daring feat. In 2025, she became the sole woman in a 10-member Army team to navigate the treacherous Brahmaputra—braving Grade 4+ rapids, icy waters, and mental and physical fatigue over a 28-day expedition.
Her perseverance, composure, and medical expertise were crucial to the team’s success in one of India’s most challenging river terrains.
From River Rafts to Mountain Rescues
Major Kavitha’s journey didn’t end with the river. Just days after the expedition, during a summit attempt on Mount Gorichen (5,900 metres) in the Eastern Himalayas, she saved the life of a fellow climber under extreme conditions. Her heroic act earned her the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Card for bravery.
On Republic Day 2025, she was awarded the prestigious Vishisht Seva Medal in recognition of her outstanding service, medical leadership, and indomitable spirit.
Rural Roots to National Recognition
Born to a railway clerk and a homemaker, Major Kavitha completed her MBBS from Srikakulam Medical College before joining the Indian Army in 2021. She is currently posted at Military Hospital, Wellington, where she continues to serve the nation with dedication.
Her story, shared widely on social media by platforms like Heroes in Uniform, has captured the imagination of the country. “From river to ridge, from lifesaver to record-setter—Major Kavitha is reshaping what courage looks like,” the post read.
Dreams of Everest, Passion for Sports Medicine
Recognised by the Andhra Pradesh Governor as “a role model,” Major Kavitha is being hailed not just for her achievements, but for breaking barriers in a male-dominated space. With her eyes now set on Mount Everest and a deep interest in sports medicine, her journey is far from over.
She stands as a testament to the belief that grit knows no geography and heroism no gender—an inspiration for countless young Indians across the country.
