Lt Ayush Pathak
The 157th Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun was memorable for many reasons, but one story stood out for its blend of duty, love, and family legacy. Among the newly commissioned officers was Lieutenant Ayush Pathak from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, whose journey into the Indian Army is as inspiring as it is heartfelt.
For Ayush, joining the Indian Army was not just a career choice, it was a deeply ingrained aspiration shaped by his upbringing and the values of service that surrounded him from a young age. His father, Mahadev Pathak, serves as an officer in the Indian Air Force, and his elder sister Nidhi is a Captain in the Indian Army. Even his brother-in-law is an Air Force officer. Growing up in such an environment, Ayush learned early that wearing the uniform means embracing responsibility, discipline, and commitment to the nation.

What makes Ayush’s story especially compelling is the personal dimension of shared purpose. His fiancée, Rohini, is already a Captain in the Indian Army, and their relationship grew from a childhood friendship into a deep bond rooted in mutual respect and common goals. The two supported each other through long periods of preparation, often from different cities, each encouraging the other to stay focused on their dreams of serving the nation.
At the IMA pipping ceremony, the emotional moment when Ayush received his Lieutenant rank was a proud occasion not just for him, but for his entire family. His mother, Manju Pathak, was seen moved with pride as she witnessed her son take his place among the new officers. The ceremony captured more than just the culmination of years of hard work, it reflected soldiers’ dedication, family support, and the strength of shared aspirations.
Lieutenant Ayush’s story resonates widely because it reflects something universal: the power of perseverance, inspiration, and partnership. For many young aspirants preparing for defence careers through exams such as NDA, CDS, AFCAT, or ACC, his journey is a reminder that success is possible when passion is combined with discipline and unwavering support.



