President’s Gold Medal Winner Rohit Kajla: NDA Cadet Realizes Dream of Joining Indian Army

Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) Rohit Kajla has been awarded the President’s Gold Medal for being the top cadet of the National Defence Academy's landmark 150th Course. Kajla, who hails from Jhajjar, Haryana, attributed his success to a long-held ambition to serve in the Indian Army.

Kajla completed his schooling at Rashtriya Military School in Bengaluru before embarking on his journey at the National Defence Academy.

In an interview following the Passing Out Parade at the Khetarpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Kajla shared, “I had always wanted to join the Indian Army, and this was my planned career path from the beginning.”

Kajla cited his father as a pivotal influence in his decision to pursue a military career.

“My father inspired me to join both the school and, subsequently, the Army. My first motivation was my father. My second source of motivation was my school, where I developed a military bearing at Rashtriya Military School, Bangalore,” Kajla explained.

After achieving the top spot in the NDA's overall order of merit, Kajla is set to join the Infantry, known for being among the Indian Army's most challenging and esteemed combat branches.

“I look forward to joining the Infantry,” he reiterated.

Reflecting on his time at the Academy, Kajla described his experience as transformative, highlighting the profound impact it had on him.

“All the activities and experiences at the NDA have not only shaped us but have transformed us in every possible way—mentally, physically and emotionally,” he remarked.

Commenting on the Academy's approach to modern military training, Kajla emphasized the focus on equipping future officers for technology-oriented warfare.

“The NDA is well equipped with modern equipment. I will give you some examples such as HSTI, laser range finders and drone systems, which you may have seen in the demonstration at the training display,” he noted.

Kajla also commended the performance of female cadets, emphasizing that they should be recognized as cadets without gender distinctions.

“There are many achievements by female cadets, and I would like to add that we should call them cadets, as they are performing equally well as us,” he stated.

A particularly moving moment for Kajla was celebrating his achievement with his parents, who were present to witness him receiving the highest accolade a graduating NDA cadet can earn.

“It cannot be expressed in words; it is completely exceptional. But I am really enjoying it. It is very good, and I could see the pride on my parents’ faces. That is the best feeling I have experienced,” Kajla shared.

Upon receiving the President’s Gold Medal, Rohit Kajla advances to the next stage of his military career, upholding the NDA’s tradition of leadership, excellence, and national service. His journey serves as a source of inspiration for young defence aspirants across India who aspire to don the uniform and serve the nation with honor.