In a landmark moment for gender equality in the Indian armed forces, Cadet Siddhi Jain etched her name in the history books at the National Defence Academy (NDA). During the 149th course passing out parade on Sunday, she became the first woman cadet to receive the prestigious President's bronze medal, a moment of immense pride witnessed by senior military leaders and her elated parents.
From Engineering Seat to Sky-High Ambitions
Siddhi's path to this historic achievement was one of conviction over convention. She had secured admission to the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT), a dream for many. However, a deeper calling for the skies and the desire to wear the Indian Air Force (IAF) uniform led her down a different path. Refusing to settle, she left her engineering prospects behind, cleared the NDA entrance in her second attempt, and embarked on a journey of rigorous training.
Reflecting on her pivotal decision, Siddhi told TOI, "I chose NDA over engineering because something within me told me this is where I belong." The moment of recognition was overwhelming for her. "It was incredible to stand there receiving awards. I never imagined such a moment. So many thoughts were rushing through my mind, and all I felt was gratitude," she shared.
Forging Strength Through Discipline and Doubt
The three-year training at the NDA was a transformative experience, with the first term being particularly challenging. Siddhi described it as a period known for its demanding routine, physical grind, and strict discipline that pushed her to her limits, testing her mental fortitude more than her physical strength.
"There were moments of doubt, exhaustion, but I kept telling myself, I can do it," she recounted. The support system at the academy played a crucial role in her success. "With the support of instructors and fellow cadets, I pushed harder, learned faster, and became stronger. Today, I can proudly say, I did it," Siddhi stated, her words echoing the resilience of a true leader.
A Nation's Pride and a Torchbearer for Girls
Hailing from Ujhani in Badaun district, Uttar Pradesh, Siddhi comes from a family rooted in education, with both her parents, Nikhil Kumar Jain and Trupti Jain, being teachers. They watched their daughter chart a course they had never imagined, but now embrace with boundless pride.
Her father, Nikhil Kumar, expressed his overwhelming joy, saying, "What more could parents ask for? She has made history, and her name will live in NDA records forever." Her mother, Trupti, proudly called her daughter an inspiration for girls across the nation. "She proved that given an opportunity, women can achieve anything. Siddhi is a torchbearer for countless young girls dreaming of wearing the uniform," she said.
In addition to the President's bronze medal, Siddhi also earned the distinction of being named the best all-round air cadet, a testament to her all-round excellence in academics, field performance, leadership, and service spirit. Her journey is far from over; she will now proceed to the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal for her final phase of training before being commissioned into the Indian Air Force.
