Ekta Kumari, a top cadet of the 1 J&K Naval Unit NCC and a student at Government College for Women in Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, has achieved a great honor by being chosen as the Parade Commander for the All India NCC Girls Contingent at the Kartavya Path Parade on Republic Day 2025. This achievement has made her a source of pride for Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh.
Ekta was inspired to join the Defence Forces by her father, a retired soldier from the 12 JAK LI. He taught her the values of discipline and serving the nation. She started her education at Army Public School in Akhnoor and continued her studies in college, where she joined the NCC to follow her dream.
From her first year in the NCC, Ekta showed her dedication through her work in social activities and adventure programs. Although she faced challenges and moments of doubt while preparing for the Republic Day Camp (RDC), she found strength in the support of her family, especially her brother Lavneet and her mother. Ekta expressed her feelings about her achievement, saying, “Becoming Parade Commander of the All India Girls Contingent at Kartavya Path is the biggest and proudest moment of my life. This victory is not just mine but belongs to my family, my unit, and the entire Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh.”
Ekta credits her success to her mentors, including her Associate NCC Officer (ANO) and trainers Imran, Altaf, and Bakshi. She encourages young people to dream big, saying, “Dream big, so that you don’t sleep until they are fulfilled.”
She also thanked Lt Col Abhijeet, Drill Ustaad Jaswinder, and others who helped her during her training at the Nagrota NCC Camp. Ekta appreciated the support from her Unit Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Tej Ram, Group Commander Brig Deepak Sajjanhar SM, Additional Director General Maj Gen Anupinder Bevli, Contingent Commander Col Amit Bhardwaj, and ANO Dr. Nitika, who all made her experience inspiring and comfortable.
Ekta Kumari’s achievement shows that with hard work, dedication, and good guidance, anyone can reach their goals. Her story inspires young people to dream big and work hard to make those dreams come true.
