Shillong, July 17 : Meghalaya’s Governor, C. H. Vijayashankar, yesterday met with 20-year-old Rifiness Warjri, who recently made history as the youngest person from the state to summit Mount Everest on May 18, 2025. The Governor not only lauded her extraordinary mountaineering feat but also recognized her multifaceted talents, inviting her to perform at the upcoming Independence Day celebrations at Raj Bhavan.
Ms. Rifiness, an NCC cadet and a B.Sc. Botany student at St. Anthony’s College, captivated the Governor with two singing performances – a patriotic song and a soulful Khasi song – demonstrating her deep cultural connection and versatility beyond her athletic prowess. Governor Vijayashankar praised her artistic talent and profound pride in Meghalaya’s rich heritage, stating that she embodies the spirit of determination and cultural pride. Her presence at the Independence Day program, he noted, will serve as an inspiration for countless youngsters across the state.
Born in Nongthymmai and raised in Laitkor, Rifiness Warjri’s journey to Everest followed her scaling Mount Abi Gamin in August 2024 under NCC supervision. As a cadet of the 61 Meghalaya Girls Battalion NCC, she became the third woman from the state to conquer Everest’s summit, reaching the peak at approximately 4:45 AM on May 18, 2025, following pioneers from 2012, 2013, and 2016.
Despite her monumental success, Ms. Warjri remains remarkably grounded, continuing to assist her family in running a small roadside tea stall in Shillong. She credits her achievements to unwavering family support and her strong foundation from the NCC. Refusing to rest on her laurels, she now harbors ambitions to conquer the “Seven Summits” – the highest peaks across all seven continents, including Denali, Kilimanjaro, and Vinson Massif. Simultaneously, she is committed to completing her academic pursuits in Botany.
Rifiness Warjri’s dedication and achievements have garnered widespread felicitations, from Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. She recently presented a symbolic rock from Everest to the Directorate of Mineral Resources, marking another milestone in her inspiring journey.
