"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
6 Aug 2026
For most teenagers, the North Pole exists only in geography books and documentaries. But for 17-year-old Lucky Rawat from Chakrata in Uttarakhand, it has become a real destination.
Selected as India's sole representative, Lucky has embarked on the prestigious 'Icebreaker of Knowledge', a 10-day international scientific and educational expedition to the geographic North Pole. His remarkable achievement has placed not only his hometown but also India on a global platform dedicated to science, exploration and international collaboration.
The expedition began in Murmansk, Russia, with students from 22 countries boarding the powerful nuclear icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy for a voyage to 90° North latitude—one of the most remote and fascinating places on Earth.
Lucky earned his place through a highly competitive three-stage international selection process, where only one student from each participating country was chosen.
The programme brings together young minds aged 14 to 16 from nations including India, Bangladesh, China and Russia, encouraging them to collaborate through scientific learning, cultural exchange and Arctic exploration. Speaking to ANI, about the opportunity, Lucky said he felt honoured to represent India.
Travelling to the North Pole, he noted, is a dream achieved by only a handful of people worldwide. For him, the expedition is not merely an adventure but a chance to serve as India's ambassador while learning alongside some of the brightest students from across the globe.
The Icebreaker of Knowledge is far more than a sightseeing expedition. Designed to ignite curiosity about science, climate and the Arctic ecosystem, the programme gives participants first-hand exposure to one of Earth's most fragile environments. Through interactive workshops, scientific activities and discussions, students gain valuable insights into polar research while developing friendships that transcend borders.
The cultural exchange component also allows participants to share their traditions, ideas and perspectives, making the voyage a celebration of global cooperation.
Back home in Chakrata, Lucky's achievement has become a source of immense pride. His father, Ram Singh, described the selection as a dream come true, expressing joy that his son successfully cleared the rigorous online examinations and earned the opportunity to represent India on such a prestigious international platform.
As India continues to encourage innovation, scientific inquiry and global engagement, stories like Lucky Rawat's shine as powerful examples of what young minds can achieve. His voyage to the North Pole is not just about reaching a rare destination—it is about expanding horizons, embracing knowledge and inspiring countless students to dream fearlessly.
From the serene hills of Chakrata to the icy expanse of the Arctic, Lucky's journey reminds us that curiosity can take us farther than we ever imagined.