The National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, has expressed profound grief over the untimely demise of Cadet Antriksh Kumar Singh, a first-term trainee cadet, in the early hours of 10 October 2025.
According to official sources, the young cadet, who had recently begun his rigorous military training at the prestigious academy, was found unresponsive in his cabin by fellow cadets after he failed to report for the day’s scheduled activities. Immediate medical attention was provided as he was rushed to the Military Hospital, Khadakwasla, where doctors declared him brought dead at 06:30 hours.
The deceased has been identified as Cadet Antariksh Kumar Singh, a resident of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The son of an ex-serviceman, he was a first-term cadet from Charlie Squadron at the National Defence Academy (NDA). Cadet Singh had joined the academy in July 2025 to begin his military training journey.
The next of kin of the deceased cadet have been informed, and the local police have been apprised of the incident. The academy authorities have ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate and determine the circumstances leading to the tragic occurrence.
In an official statement, the NDA fraternity conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, stating that the institution stands with them in this difficult hour. The academy emphasized that every cadet at NDA is part of a close-knit community that values courage, discipline, and camaraderie, and the loss of a young life in training deeply saddens all ranks and instructors.
We are deeply saddened by the tragic demise of Cadet Antriksh Kumar Singh. He was a brilliant student, exceptionally disciplined, and highly motivated towards serving the nation. Antriksh had successfully cleared the NDA 154 course for the Indian Air Force from 1 AFSB, a testament to his hard work, intelligence, and determination. Said Shishir Dixit, Founder, Centurion Defence Academy
The National Defence Academy, located near Pune, Maharashtra, is one of India’s premier joint services academies, where cadets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force train together before moving on to their respective service academies for pre-commission training. The unfortunate demise of Cadet Antriksh Kumar Singh serves as a somber reminder of the demanding nature of military training and the emotional strength required of those who choose this noble path.
