NDA Success Story: Bihar’s ‘Khushi’ Cracks NDA Twice Right After School, Becomes the 9th Member of Her Family to Join the Indian Army

Dreams nurtured in school corridors often fade with time, but for Khushi Kumari from Chapra, Bihar, the dream of wearing the Indian Army uniform only grew stronger. With sheer determination, discipline, and self-belief, Khushi not only cracked the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination, but did so twice in a row, creating history for herself and inspiration for thousands of young girls across the country.

In her second attempt, Khushi secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 49, while ranking AIR 7 among female candidates, earning her a place in the NDA and marking her entry as the ninth member of her family to serve as an Army officer.

A Dream Born in School Days

A resident of Chapra district in Bihar, Khushi’s passion for joining the armed forces began during her school years. She grew up surrounded by stories of courage, discipline, and service, as several members of her family proudly served in the Indian Army.

While studying in Class 11, Khushi learned about the historic Supreme Court verdict allowing women to appear for the NDA examination. That decision became a turning point in her life. From that moment onwards, she committed herself fully to the goal of joining the National Defence Academy.

Cleared NDA Immediately After School

Khushi appeared for the NDA examination for the 150th course soon after completing school. With just a few months of focused preparation, she cleared the written exam and SSB process, securing AIR 387 in the final merit list.

However, due to the limited number of seats available for women at that time—only 19 seats nationwide—she narrowly missed final selection despite qualifying through 18 SSB Allahabad. For many, this could have been the end of the journey. For Khushi, it became the beginning of a stronger comeback.

Second Attempt, Stronger Resolve

Refusing to give up, Khushi intensified her preparation for the 151st NDA course in 2023. With renewed confidence and unwavering dedication, she delivered an exceptional performance, securing AIR 49 overall and AIR 7 among women candidates.

This time, she received a recommendation from 21 SSB Bhopal, turning her long-cherished dream into reality and earning her admission into the NDA.

Carrying Forward a Proud Family Legacy

Khushi’s journey is deeply rooted in her family’s military tradition. Her grandfather and maternal grandfather, along with several relatives, have served as officers in the Indian Army. With her selection, Khushi becomes the ninth member of the family to don the olive green uniform—and notably, one of the women officers carrying this legacy forward.

Some family members are retired, while others continue to serve the nation. Khushi’s success not only preserves this proud tradition but also adds a new chapter to it.

An Inspiration for India’s Daughters

Khushi Kumari’s story stands as a powerful reminder that gender is no barrier to courage, leadership, or patriotism. Her achievement is a beacon of hope for young girls dreaming of a career in the armed forces, especially from small towns and rural India.

With discipline as her strength and determination as her weapon, Khushi has proven that dreams backed by hard work can indeed march into reality—straight through the gates of the National Defence Academy.