SOLUKHUMBU: Nepal Armed Police Force (APF) Assistant Sub-Inspector Nim Diki Sherpa has successfully summited Lobuche Peak (6,119m) in the Everest region, marking a significant milestone in her bid to become the first female junior officer in the force's history to climb Mount Everest.

Sherpa reached the Lobuche summit at 8:57 am on the first day of the new Nepali year 2083, according to the APF headquarters. The ascent serves as an acclimatisation climb ahead of her planned attempts on Lhotse and Everest this spring season.

She is being guided by Tashi Gyalzen Sherpa, a Guinness World Record holder who scaled Everest four times in just 15 days, who will lead her to the Everest summit and back.

The US Nepal Climbers Association (USNCA) has extended financial backing for her Everest bid. USNCA president Jangbu Sherpa confirmed that at least Rs 400,000 has already been raised from life members, the executive board, and well-wishers. "USNCA congratulates her for the success on Lobuche and offers best wishes for her record-setting Everest climb," he said.

If successful on Everest, Sherpa will follow in the footsteps of two male APF predecessors — DSP Suraj Poudel and ASI Dantabahadur Chhantyal — who previously summited the world's highest peak, bringing recognition to the organisation and the country. Sherpa's Everest summit, however, would be a first for a female officer in the force.