Siddhi Jain From Centurion Defence Academy Creates History as NDA’s First Woman President’s Medal Winner
Some achievements don’t just set records; they open doors for generations to come. One such inspiring milestone has been created by Siddhi Jain, a proud alumna of Centurion Defence Academy, who has made history by becoming the first woman cadet to receive the prestigious President’s Medal at the National Defence Academy (NDA).
For thousands of defence aspirants across the country, her journey is a reminder that “अगर इरादे मजबूत हों, तो कोई मंज़िल दूर नहीं होती।” This isn’t just a personal victory for Siddhi; it’s a landmark moment for women in the Indian Armed Forces.
A Historic Achievement at NDA
The President’s Medal is awarded to the cadet who stands first in the overall order of merit at NDA. It recognises excellence in academics, physical endurance, outdoor training, leadership qualities and discipline. Since the NDA’s establishment in 1954, this honour has been held solely by male cadets.
But everything changed after 2021 when women were finally allowed to join the NDA. And in just a few years, Siddhi proved that “काबिलियत पर कभी भी Gender का असर नहीं होता।” She rose to the very top, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the best and outperforming them with grace and grit.
Women at the NDA today are not just participating; they are leading and redefining possibilities.
Siddhi Jain: A Story of Hard Work, Focus, and Grit
Siddhi’s journey to the President’s Medal didn’t happen overnight. It took long study hours, intense physical training, unshakeable discipline, and a strong belief in her dreams. Coming from a background where ambition was encouraged, she set her eyes on the Armed Forces at a young age.
Her training at Centurion Defence Academy, known for its disciplined environment and expert guidance, further strengthened her foundation. From written exam preparation to SSB interviews and physical conditioning, Siddhi has always been found pushing her limits.
Instead of aiming only to "clear" the NDA exam, she aimed to excel-and that is exactly what she did.
Breaking Barriers: Why Siddhi’s Win Matters
Siddhi Jain’s President’s Medal is more than an award; it is a message. A message to every young girl, every parent, every defence aspirant, and every institute preparing students for the armed forces.
1. A Milestone for Women in the Armed Forces
Siddhi’s win is a landmark moment that proves women can excel at the highest levels of military training.
For decades, the NDA was considered a male bastion. Today, a woman stands at the very top of its merit list.
2. Motivation for Future Aspirants
Young girls preparing for defence exams now have a role model they can relate to.
Siddhi’s journey says loud and clear:
“अगर वो कर सकती है, तो मैं भी कर सकती हूँ।”
3. A Boost to Gender Equality
Her performance strengthens the argument for expanded roles and greater representation of women in the Armed Forces. It shows that opportunity, when given, can lead to excellence.
4. Recognition of True Merit
The President’s Medal is awarded purely on merit. Siddhi’s win reinforces that success at NDA is earned, not gifted, based solely on performance, hard work, and leadership.
What Aspirants Can Learn from Siddhi Jain
Siddhi's story is full of lessons for every defence aspirant, especially those preparing for the upcoming NDA exams. Here are a few takeaways:
1. Dream big, but prepare bigger
Everybody's dream is to get into the Armed Forces, but only those who prepare for it with discipline succeed. Siddhi focused on daily improvement, not shortcuts.
2. Consistency beats talent
She wasn’t just talented, she was consistent. Whether it was studies, PT, or SSB preparation, she showed up every day.
3. Don’t be afraid to break stereotypes
Being a woman in a male-dominated field didn’t stop her. In fact, it motivated her to prove herself.
4. Choose the right guidance
Institutes such as Centurion Defence Academy will provide you with a framework, resources, and mentorship which may make all the difference.
5. Believe in yourself, even when the journey gets hard
NDA training is not easy, but the resilience of Siddhi helped her to emerge as the best among the best.
A Proud Moment for the Nation
With Siddhi Jain becoming the first woman President’s Medal winner at the NDA, a new era begins. Her achievement inspires thousands of young girls to walk towards their dream of serving India with courage and pride.
This is a proud moment for the nation, for the Armed Forces, and especially for Centurion Defence Academy, whose students continue to excel across the country. Siddhi has not only created history, but she has also given future aspirants a path to follow and a dream to chase.
As we celebrate her success, one thing becomes clear:
“इतिहास वही बनाते हैं जो रास्ते बदलने का साहस रखते हैं।”
