Shivamogga student secures all-India first rank in NDA exam

Bengaluru: An 18-year-old engineering student from Karnataka has achieved a remarkable milestone by topping the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examination across the country. Shreya N Gowda, a native of Bhadravathi in Shivamogga district, secured the all-India first rank in the examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), succeeding in her maiden attempt.

Her achievement is the culmination of a dream she nurtured from childhood. While studying in Class 8, Shreya learnt that women were eligible to join the NDA and decided to work towards a career in the armed forces. She had set her sights on securing a position among the top 10, but her performance exceeded her own expectations.

Shreya studied at BGS Central School in Karehalli, Bhadravathi, until Class 10 and secured the top position in her taluk. She then moved to Bengaluru for her pre-university course at BASE PU College in Rajajinagar. Her preparation for the JEE examination strengthened her foundation and proved useful while preparing for the NDA written test. She is presently studying engineering at NITK, Surathkal.

Her preparation extended beyond classroom studies. She participated in debates, painting and speech competitions and won first place in a state-level debate contest. She also worked on improving her physical fitness and awareness of current affairs, recognising the importance of these skills in the NDA selection process.

The five-day SSB interview was particularly demanding, she said, as candidates are assessed on leadership qualities, teamwork and their ability to make decisions. Shreya followed a regular running schedule, read newspapers and kept track of developments across the world. She also underwent 14 days of special coaching in Nagpur.

Her father, J. Nagendra, is employed at VISL in Bhadravathi, and her mother, B.M. Asha, works as a lecturer. She credited their encouragement and freedom to choose her career for helping her stay focused.

Shreya intends to discontinue her engineering course and join the NDA at Khadakwasla, Pune, for three years of training. She hopes to serve in the Indian Army, particularly in defence technology and missile-related fields. Her message to young women is to pursue their aspirations boldly and remain committed to their goals.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.