For Major (Dr.) Neikhrietuonuo Linyu, who became the first Naga woman to set foot on the highest peak in the world Mount Everest, it was a proud and also an emotional moment as she recounted her experience on scaling the “treacherous” summit and described it as “one of a kind journey.”

Emotions took over this young, determined and adventurous Indian Army officer as Major Linyu shed tears while she related her journey to the top of the world at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan Thursday where a felicitation programme was held in her honour.

Major (Dr.) N.Linyu was part of the Indian Army women expedition to Mount Everest which was launched to mark 25 years of Army Adventure Wing.

She not only became the first Naga to climb Everest but at the national level, she along with her team of six other women, set a record of the highest number of women team to have successfully scaled this mountain on May 26.

Major Linyu said that the extremities of climate, unusual topographical features associated with the mountain range and unpredictable weather conditions coupled with heavy winds and storm made the expedition difficult. But the team was determined as ever to reach the summit, said Major Linyu.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor Nikhil Kumar termed Major Linyu’s feat as an “extraordinary achievement” having gone through enormous dangers and challenges. “Your achievement is out of ordinary and we are proud that someone from Nagaland has done this, the first instance from the state,” the Governor noted with pride.

Stating that Major Linyu has become a role model for young Naga people to set new goals and achieve them, Kumar said Nagas should learn from the inspired story of this young Naga woman.

Also addressing the function, chief minister Neiphiu Rio described the scaling of Mt. Everest by Major Linyu as an “outstanding achievement” that had made the nation, the Army and particularly Nagas, proud.

Rio appreciated the parents of the officer for giving her the liberty to achieve her dream and also expressed the hope that with her adventurous spirit, she would bring more laurels to the state.

The welcome address was delivered by Naiba Konyak, parliamentary secretary for Youth Resources and Sports. Special songs were presented by Junior Red Cross of Chandmari Higher Secondary School and Junior Red Cross of Mt.Sinai Higher Secondary School.

The felicitation programme was attended by family members of Major N.Linyu, cabinet ministers, parliamentary secretaries, bureaucrats, army officials, civil society group representatives and NCC students.