First in a decade: 4 cadets from civilian backgrounds rise to excellence at NDA
Pune: In a proud moment for the POP of the 149th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA), four cadets from purely civilian backgrounds stood tall at the convocation this Saturday, marking the first time in ten years that such a group has risen to distinction at the academy.
For these cadets, who entered the NDA without any military exposure, the achievement wasn’t just academic or professional; it was deeply personal.
Unlike many of their peers who grew up in military families or trained in Sainik Schools, these four had no prior experience with drills, physical regimentation, or the disciplined lifestyle that defines the academy.
A Tough Beginning, A Stronger Finish
Stepping into the NDA was nothing short of a culture shock. The early morning parades, strict routines, and demanding physical conditioning pushed them to their limits. Looking back today, all four describe their initial months as the toughest phase of their life.
But what began as overwhelming soon transformed into an opportunity to redefine themselves.
Ananya Leads With Excellence in Computer Science
Continuing the inspiring trend of female cadets excelling academically, Cadet Ananya Sharma from Uttarakhand topped the BSc Computer Science stream, another proud milestone after last year’s female topper.
Raised by her mother, Hemlata, a single parent working as an accountant in Faridabad, Ananya says the journey hasn’t been easy, but it has definitely been worth it.
“I come from a civilian background. Everything inside the NDA was new for me. But today, when I stand here as a topper, I feel the hard work has paid off,” she said, radiating confidence.
She believes that dreaming big is the starting point.
“Girls who want to join NDA should dream fearlessly. Dreams do come true if you chase them with commitment.”
Vishwesh Takes the Lead in B.Tech
In the technical stream, Air Cadet Vishwesh Bhalerao from Pune secured the top position in B.Tech till the sixth term. Born to doctor parents, his dream of becoming a fighter pilot started young and never faded.
“I always wanted to sit in that cockpit. The roar of the aircraft, the power, the thrill, that’s what motivated me every single day,” he said.
He recalled how challenging the first term was, but credits his instructors and seniors for helping him stay focused.
His father, ophthalmologist Dr. Nitin Bhalerao, said,
“We never pushed him toward anything except his dream. Today he’s shown what determination can do.”
Kartik’s Consistency Makes Him a B.Sc. Topper
Matching step with the achievers, Cadet Kartik Maheshwari from Uttarakhand topped the BSc stream. Coming from a family with no military background, his father a businessman and his mother a schoolteacher, Kartik admits that NDA was a completely unknown world to him.
“The schedule was extremely tough. But I improved every term. I didn’t give up,” he said with a smile.
“Becoming a topper today is a proud moment for my parents and me.”
Anurag Emerges as BA Stream Topper
The fourth civilian cadet, Anurag Gupta, secured the top position in the BA stream. His quiet consistency and disciplined approach helped him rise through academic challenges.
A Journey From Civilian Life to Military Excellence
What makes their achievements special is not just the medals or positions but the transformation.
These four cadets entered a world shaped by:
- Early morning parades
- Gruelling PT sessions
- Tight academic schedules
- Discipline-driven routines
And yet, through grit, resilience, and the guidance of their instructors and senior cadets, they didn’t just adapt, they excelled.
Read more:
Taxi Driver’s Son Wins President’s Gold Medal at NDA 149th POP
NDA 149 Course Passing Out Parade - Autumn Term 2025
Who is Siddhi Jain? The First woman cadet to receive the President's Medal at NDA
