Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA) Peeyush Rautela of Mike Squadron secured first position in the Science stream (B.Sc. Chemistry) at the Convocation Ceremony of the historic 150th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA), earning the prestigious Commandant’s Silver Medal and the COAS Rolling Trophy.
Rautela achieved an FGPA of 7.97, emerging as the top cadet in the Science stream among the graduating course. The award was presented during the convocation ceremony attended by Chief Guest Dr Kiran Bedi, IPS (Retd.), former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
Speaking after receiving the honour, ACA Rautela expressed gratitude to his family and mentors, crediting them for his achievement.
“Whatever I have achieved till now is due to the hard work of my parents, sister and the instructors who helped me reach here,” he said.
Rautela revealed that he is the first member of his family to join the Armed Forces, making the achievement particularly significant for him and his family.
“I am the first one in my family to join the defence forces,” he added.
The young cadet said his aspiration to wear the uniform was shaped during his formative years at Sainik School Ghorakhal, where the disciplined environment, military-oriented training and guidance from instructors inspired him to pursue a career in the Armed Forces.
According to Rautela, the ethos of institutions such as Sainik Schools plays a crucial role in motivating students towards military service and preparing them for the challenges of life at the NDA.
His achievement highlights not only academic excellence but also the spirit of perseverance and dedication that defines the future leaders being groomed at the NDA.
The Convocation Ceremony of the NDA’s 150th Course saw 236 cadets receive degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), marking an important milestone before they proceed towards commissioning into the Armed Forces.
ACA Peeyush Rautela’s success stands as an inspiration for aspiring defence candidates, especially those from non-military backgrounds, demonstrating how determination, family support and strong mentorship can pave the way to excellence in military service.
