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Ritul Duhan National Defence Academy
Meet Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan who is part of the first batch of women cadets set to graduate later this May from National Defence Academy (NDA). Cadet Ritul Duhan, a national-level athlete and a state-level debater from Hisar, Haryana, is a shining example of determination and dedication. She was inspired to join the NDA after the 2021 announcement allowing female candidates to apply. She had completed her first year of engineering before she joined the NDA.
Coming from a state with a strong tradition of military service, she took pride in preparing for and clearing the NDA entrance exam. The pride in her parents’ eyes upon her selection reaffirmed her belief that she was destined for this path.
On NDA inducting women cadets, Ritul said, “It was a historic step to induct female cadets in the NDA. Being part of the first course inducted, I feel obliged and privileged. Initially, when we joined, the academy had not seen female trainees for the last 75 years. So it was new for the cadets, instructors , and officers.
There was uncertainty, unfamiliarity. But a lot has changed in the last three years. The academy has adapted and updated itself to acquaint us and integrate us fully into the mainstream of the academy. There have been changes in aspects like cross-country races, camps, and games. The physiology of the female body is different. So some changes had to be made. Those changes have come up beautifully,” she added.
Speaking about what motivated her to join the NDA, Ritul said, “In September 2021, the NDA entrance exam was opened for female candidates. At that time, I started thinking of joining the Armed forces. I belong to Haryana, from where many people join the Armed forces. When I read about the NDA, I was very impressed by its glorious history. Then, I decided to join the NDA and started preparing in that direction. And When I cleared the NDA entrance, the pride in my parents’ eyes made me realise this is what I was destined for.”
Life at NDA: A Cadet’s Perspective
When asked about the NDA’s routine, Ritul said, At the NDA, every day is different, making each day unique. A typical day starts at 5 am. The entire squadron musters at the squadron parade ground for the NDA prayer and the honour code. This is followed by outdoor training. After that, we attend classes for the bachelor’s degrees we are pursuing.
She said once classes are over, they have lunch, games, physical training (PT), drill practice, and other activities. “After these activities, there is a designated study period. Following this, we have the Ante Room procedure, where squadron appointments pass on the following day’s orders. Dinner is served next,” she said, adding that what makes this time special is that the cadets organise and control everything.
Senior cadets are responsible for deciding the day’s schedule, making the NDA a cadet-driven academy that teaches leadership in practice. After dinner, cadets have some personal time before lights out at 10.15 pm.
When asked what the NDA means to her, Cadet Ritul responded, “It’s a platform for training and personal growth.” She emphasised that the NDA’s curriculum combines academics, physical training, and personal development, with no compromises on education or physical training.
Guidance For NDA Aspirants
For aspirants preparing for the NDA Exam and aiming to join this prestigious academy, having the right resources is crucial. Mission NDA Book and NDA Maths Formula Book have been key to the success of many candidates who have made it to the NDA. These books provide structured guidance, comprehensive study material, and effective strategies to help candidates excel in their preparation and achieve their dream of joining the armed forces.
