Abida Choudhury Prepares for Antarctica Expedition

Abida Choudhury, a distinguished Assam University alumnus and former physics PhD scholar, is poised to embark on a high-stakes scientific journey: an Antarctica expedition aimed at advancing climate change research in one of the harshest environments on Earth. This incredible milestone not only reflects her academic dedication but also highlights the growing role of Northeast India in global climate studies.

She recently completed an intensive pre-expedition training program at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police’s Mountaineering and Skiing Institute in Auli, Uttarakhand, conducted from August 11–22, 2025. This rigorous preparation equipped her to navigate extreme environmental conditions—from sub-zero temperatures and violent blizzards to isolation and high-altitude challenges. Such training is critical for survival and scientific effectiveness in Antarctica.

A Milestone for Regional Science and Inspiration

Choudhury’s selection for the expedition marks a watershed moment—not only for her personally, but for Assam University and the broader Northeast India region. The university’s Vice-Chancellor praised her achievement as a regional scientific achievement that demonstrates the global promise of researchers from the region. For students and faculty alike, her journey represents a powerful symbol of resilience and inspiration.

From Auli to Antarctica: Resilience Under Trial

Reflecting on her pre-expedition training, Choudhury noted that the experience strengthened her confidence for the challenges ahead in Antarctica. The training simulated the demanding environmental stressors she will face, fostering both physical endurance and mental grit. Experts anticipate that her contributions will deepen India’s involvement in polar climate research—adding crucial insights to collective understanding of global environmental shifts.