Parth Kumar Tiwari has emerged as the All India Rank 1 holder in the National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 examination, setting an inspiring example for defence aspirants across the country. Hailing from a small village in Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh, his journey from a modest background to the top rank in one of India’s toughest competitive examinations reflects discipline, consistency, and a clear sense of purpose.
The NDA examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, is the gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Securing the first rank at the national level is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the intense competition and multi-stage selection process.
Parth Kumar Tiwari’s early life was rooted in simplicity and strong academic values. Born into a family that prioritised education, he grew up in an environment that encouraged discipline and hard work. His father, a teacher by profession, and his mother, also associated with teaching, played a crucial role in shaping his academic foundation and guiding him towards a career in the armed forces.
His schooling journey began in local institutions, where he studied up to the primary level. Demonstrating academic excellence at a young age, he later secured admission to a Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, one of India’s premier government-run residential school systems known for nurturing talented students from rural backgrounds. This exposure further strengthened his academic and personal development.
A major turning point in his journey came when he cleared the entrance examination for the Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehradun. RIMC is one of the most prestigious feeder institutions for the NDA, known for its rigorous training, disciplined environment, and focus on developing leadership qualities among young cadets. His time at RIMC played a decisive role in shaping his personality and preparing him for the NDA selection process.
Parth appeared for the NDA written examination conducted in 2025 and performed exceptionally well. However, success in NDA is not limited to academic excellence. Candidates must also clear the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which evaluates personality traits, leadership potential, psychological strength, and officer-like qualities. Parth successfully cleared the SSB interview in early 2026, demonstrating a balanced combination of intellect, confidence, and leadership abilities.
The NDA selection process is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive evaluation systems in the country. It includes a written examination followed by a five-day SSB interview process, and finally, a detailed medical examination. Only a small percentage of candidates make it through all stages, making Parth’s achievement of securing AIR 1 even more significant.
His success story stands out not just because of the rank he secured, but also because of the journey he undertook. Coming from a small village, he overcame limitations in resources through determination, structured preparation, and the right guidance at crucial stages of his life. His achievement reflects the importance of institutions like Navodaya Vidyalayas and RIMC in providing opportunities to talented students from rural India.
Parth Kumar Tiwari’s accomplishment has brought pride to his family and his hometown. It also serves as a source of motivation for thousands of young aspirants who dream of wearing the uniform and serving the nation. His story reinforces the idea that with dedication, discipline, and the right direction, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved.
Following his success, Parth will now join the National Defence Academy, where he will undergo three years of rigorous military and academic training. After completing his training at NDA, he will move on to his respective service academy for pre-commission training before being commissioned as an officer in the Indian Armed Forces.
Parth Kumar Tiwari’s journey from a small village to securing the top rank in NDA 2025 is a testament to perseverance and excellence. His story is not just about academic success but about determination, discipline, and a deep commitment to serving the nation.
