Vision of Determination: Chhonzin Angmo Becomes First Blind Woman to Conquer Everest!

Chhonzin Angmo's journey to Mount Everest's summit is an inspiration to millions. Born in a small village in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district, Angmo lost her vision at age 8 due to a medicine allergy. However, this didn't deter her spirit. With the support of her family, she pursued her education and discovered her passion for mountaineering.Early Life and EducationAngmo was in Class 3 when her vision started deteriorating. Despite visiting several hospitals, her condition couldn't be reversed. Her family, though facing financial struggles, supported her education. Angmo was enrolled in the Mahabodhi School and Hostel for Visually-Impaired Children in Leh, where she developed her interest in mountaineering. Angmo completed a basic climbing course from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports in Manali. She then climbed multiple peaks in Ladakh and became part of Operation Blue Freedom, an expedition to Siachen Glacier. Her passion for climbing grew with each ascent.Conquering the Highest PeakMount Everest is a dream for every mountaineer because it represents the ultimate challenge and achievement in the world of mountaineering. At 8,848 meters (29,031 feet) above sea level, it is the highest peak on Earth, and climbing it is a testament to one's physical and mental endurance. Mount Everest embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration that drives mountaineers. Climbing the mountain requires a deep passion for the outdoors, a willingness to take risks, and the ability to push oneself to the limits of human endurance. Reaching the Mount Everest is not just about conquering a mountain; it's also a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Climbers face numerous challenges, from harsh weather conditions to steep terrain, which test their resolve, resilience, and determination. Climbing Mount Everest is a prestigious achievement that earns recognition within the mountaineering community and beyond. It's a badge of honor that showcases a climber's skills, experience, and dedication to the sport. Mount Everest is an unforgiving environment that pushes climbers to their limits. The thin air, extreme cold, and steep terrain make it one of the most challenging mountains to climb. Overcoming these challenges is a proof  to human endurance and the indomitable spirit of adventure. For these reasons, Mount Everest remains a dream destination for many mountaineers, a challenge that continues to inspire and motivate climbers from around the world.The Everest DreamAngmo's meeting with Skalzang Rigzin, a renowned mountaineer, fueled her dream to conquer Mount Everest. Rigzin, impressed by Angmo's willpower and determination, guided her on techniques and strategies. With the support of her bank employer and expedition organizers, Angmo began her journey to Everest. Angmo, guided by Dandu Sherpa and Om Gurung, reached the summit of Mount Everest . She became the first visually impaired woman from India and the fifth in the world to achieve this feat. "Stepping on the summit of Mt Everest, my first thought was how each step counts in our journey, whether one is abled or specially-abled. This is only a step in my dream to instill willpower in every specially-abled person," Angmo said.The Making of a LegendChhonzin Angmo's story is a proof  to human resilience. From a small village in Himachal Pradesh to the summit of Mount Everest, her journey is an inspiration. Angmo's determination and passion for mountaineering have made her a role model for millions. Angmo's loss of vision at age 8 could have been a setback. Instead, it fueled her determination. Her family's support and her own willpower enabled her to pursue her dreams.Angmo's achievement has inspired countless people. Her village, Chango, celebrates her triumph, proud of their "oasis in the cold desert." Angmo's story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Digitizing History: How China is Using High Technology to Preserve its Cultural Heritage

China has been making significant efforts to preserve its cultural heritage with the aid of high technology. One such initiative is the digitization of the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, a 1,600-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Gobi Desert in Dunhuang City.  By creating digital versions of the grotto temples, murals, and sculptures, these splendid cultural heritage items can be reproduced and shared with the world. The digital database, called Digital Dunhuang, has an online resource database that provides high-resolution digital resources and virtual tours of 30 Dunhuang caves.  The English version of the platform has been accessed by users in 78 countries worldwide and has received over 15.6 million views. Furthermore, a cultural heritage digital platform supported by blockchain technology was launched, providing people worldwide with 6,500 pieces of high-definition materials.  Additionally, China's first multi-field coupling lab on murals and ancient ruins protection has been put to use in international collaborative research. Located in the city of Dunhuang, the lab can simulate different conditions that murals and ancient ruins are exposed to and collect direct data for future research.  With a controlled environment to its merit, the lab is expected to play a significant role in cultural heritage protection across China. By using high technology, China is preserving its cultural heritage, making it accessible to people worldwide, and ensuring its protection for future generations.