Medalists of NDA's Historic 150th Course: Kajla, Rautela, Sharma Lead the Way

The 150th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) concluded with a remarkable Passing Out Parade at Khadakwasla, marking the emergence of a new wave of military leaders. Among them, three cadets stood out, each earning prestigious medals that highlight their dedication, discipline, and resilience.

President’s Gold Medal: BCC Rohit Kajla

Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) Rohit Kajla, an alumnus of Rashtriya Military School Bengaluru hailing from Jhajjar, Haryana, was honored with the President’s Gold Medal for achieving the highest order of merit in the 150th Course.

Kajla, whose father is an Army veteran, credited his father as his greatest source of inspiration. His time at military school instilled in him discipline and military values, but it was the NDA that shaped him into a leader equipped to handle extensive responsibilities under pressure.

Recounting his role as Battalion Cadet Captain, Kajla emphasized one crucial lesson he learned.

"Before becoming a successful senior, I had to become a good senior to my juniors."

Leading 504 cadets during his tenure enhanced his growth both as a leader and on a personal level, he shared.

President’s Silver Medal: ACA Peeyush Rautela

Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA) Peeyush Rautela of Mike Squadron received the President’s Silver Medal for securing second place in the overall order of merit. He excelled in the Science stream, obtaining an FGPA of 7.97 in B.Sc. Chemistry.

Rautela, a graduate of Sainik School Ghorakhal, stated that his aspiration to join the Armed Forces began during his school days. The disciplined environment, committed instructors, and strong camaraderie among fellow cadets motivated him to pursue a military career.

Remarkably, he is the first in his family to enter the Armed Forces.

"Whatever I have achieved till now is due to the hard work of my parents, sister and the instructors who helped me reach here," he remarked.

Rautela attributed his achievements to the mentorship of his teachers, instructors, and seniors who supported him throughout his journey.

President’s Bronze Medal: BCC Sahil Sharma

Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) Sahil Sharma, from Jammu and a former student of Rashtriya Military School Chail, was awarded the President’s Bronze Medal.

Sharma’s accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as he cleared the NDA entrance exam on his fifth attempt.

Inspired by his father, an ex-serviceman, Sharma persevered despite four prior unsuccessful attempts, acknowledging the crucial support of his family and mentors for his determination.

"Through the four unsuccessful attempts, what kept me going was the unwavering support of my family and the encouragement of my mentors from school," he stated.

Reflecting on his NDA experience, Sharma described the past three years as the most challenging, rewarding, and enriching time of his life.

A Historic Course

General Upendra Dwivedi, an alumnus of the NDA himself, reviewed the Passing Out Parade for the 150th Course. A total of 353 cadets, including 18 women cadets and 24 cadets from 12 friendly foreign countries, completed their NDA training, symbolically crossing the Antim Pag.

The journeys of Rohit Kajla, Peeyush Rautela, and Sahil Sharma embody the core values of the National Defence Academy—leadership, perseverance, humility, and excellence. As they transition to the next phase of military training, they carry forward the legacy of one of the Academy’s most significant courses.