Major Kavitha Vasupalli makes history as lone woman in record-breaking Brahmaputra rafting expedition

Major Kavitha Vasupalli became the only woman in a world-record Brahmaputra River rafting expedition, covering 1,040 km in 28 days. The Army doctor from Andhra Pradesh braved extreme conditions and was recognised with a Vishisht Seva Medal and COAS commendation.

Sangareddy: Major Kavitha Vasupalli, a Medical Officer with 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 1,040 km in 28 days, from Gelling village near the Indo-Tibetan border in Arunachal Pradesh to Hatsingimari near the Indo-Bangladesh border in Assam.

Led by Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal, the 10-member team began their journey on January 14 and completed it on February 10, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Major Kavitha was the only woman in the entire team.

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A native of Metturu village in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, Major Kavitha said the team braved extreme conditions including Grade 4+ rapids, freezing waters, and multiple raft flips. Undeterred by nature’s fury, she said the group demonstrated not just physical resilience but unshakable mental strength, rising stronger each time.

“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,” the Army Medical Officer said.

Her participation stands as a beacon of inspiration for countless women across the country, particularly those from rural India, as she proved 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, Major Kavitha symbolises 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 Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Commendation Card for her lifesaving medical actions during the Mt. Gorichen summit.

Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal, who led the expedition as Director of the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), has summited Mount Everest three times and is a recipient of the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award.