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From IIT Dropout to History Maker: Siddhi Jain Becomes NDA’s First Woman President’s Medal Winner

Cadet Siddhi Jain Creates History as NDA’s First Woman President’s Medalist — A Journey from IIT Aspirant to Air Force Trailblazer

Cadet Siddhi Jain, who once dreamed of cracking the IIT-JEE, has scripted history by becoming the first woman ever to receive the President’s Medal at the National Defence Academy’s (NDA) 149th Passing Out Parade. Her incredible achievement has inspired countless young girls across India and marked a defining moment in the NDA’s evolving legacy.

A Landmark Achievement in NDA’s History

At the grand parade in Pune, Siddhi was honoured with the President’s Medal for her exceptional overall performance. She was also awarded the Best All-Round Air Cadet, a title reserved for the most outstanding cadet across academics, military training, leadership, and Air Force-specific subjects.

The ceremony, attended by senior military officials and dignitaries, was described as historic by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, who pinned the honour on her uniform. He said Siddhi’s achievement reflects the “rising strength and leadership of women in India’s armed forces” and sets a benchmark for future generations.

A Journey Defined by Perseverance

Siddhi, from Ujhani in Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun district, broke down after her first NDA attempt, where she was screened out during the SSB interview. But instead of giving up, she joined Centurion Defence Academy, the institute she now credits for rebuilding her confidence and sharpening her skills.

Speaking after the ceremony, she said:

“Receiving the President’s Medal is a dream I never imagined. One rejection cannot decide your fate. Determination always wins.”

Historic Feat in Order of Merit

This batch saw 15 women cadets graduate, but Siddhi achieved a milestone no woman before her had:
She became the first female cadet to secure a position in the NDA’s overall order of merit.

Other top honours included:

President’s Gold Medal – ACA Deepak Kandpal
President’s Silver Medal – ACC Siddharth Singh
President’s Bronze Medal – DCC Siddhi Jain

Siddhi was the only woman among the medalists.

From IIT Ambitions to the Parade Ground

Before choosing the armed forces, Siddhi excelled academically. She had:

Prepared for IIT-JEE in Kota
Secured a top rank
Gained admission into NIT

Her parents, both educators, assumed she would pursue engineering. But Siddhi chose the Indian Air Force instead — a path filled with uncertainty and incredible discipline.

Three Years of Rigorous Training

The NDA journey tested her physically, mentally, and emotionally. Long drills, tough academics, and relentless discipline shaped her into a leader.

Under the guidance of Defence Psychologist Dr. Shishir Dixit at Centurion Academy, Siddhi overcame past weaknesses and transformed her personality. Cadet after cadet looked up to her dedication as she excelled in:

Air Force-specific modules
Joint military training
Academics
Leadership evaluations

What Lies Ahead: A Sky Full of Dreams

Siddhi will now proceed to the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, for her final phase of training. Her mission is clear:

“I want to become an officer who makes India proud and inspires thousands of young girls to join the defence forces.”

A Symbol of Modern Indian Womanhood

Siddhi Jain’s rise from a small town in UP to the NDA parade ground is not just a personal victory — it is a symbol of changing India. For millions of aspirants watching her journey, she has already become: