Taxi Driver’s Son Becomes Best NDA Cadet, Wins President’s Gold Medal at the 149th Passing Out Parade in Pune
Taxi Driver’s Son Becomes Best NDA Cadet, Wins President’s Gold Medal at the 149th Passing Out Parade in Pune
The Uttarakhand cadet, who lived in a rented room and studied under financial constraints, tops the 149th Passing Out Parade in Pune.
Cadet Adjutant Deepak Kandpal from Garud in Uttarakhand’s Bageshwar district has emerged as the best cadet of the National Defence Academy’s 2025 batch, earning the President’s Gold Medal at the 149th Passing Out Parade in Pune. The prestigious honour was presented by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, who reviewed the ceremonial parade.
Deepak’s journey is remarkable not just for his achievement but for the circumstances he rose above. His father, Jeevan Chandra Kandpal, works as a taxi driver, and the family continues to live in a rented room. Growing up with limited financial means, Deepak balanced studies, discipline and determination to pursue a childhood dream of joining the armed forces.
He studied at St Adams Public School in Garud till Class 8, completed Classes 9 to 12 at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Gagrigole, and topped his district in Class 12. While pursuing graduation from Delhi University, he simultaneously prepared for the NDA entrance exam and earned admission to the academy in 2022.
During his three years of rigorous training at the NDA, Deepak excelled in every sphere academic performance, physical fitness and leadership development qualities that collectively determine the best cadet of the course. The President’s Gold Medal is awarded to the cadet who demonstrates the finest overall performance over the entire duration of training, making it the academy’s highest recognition.
Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, reviewed the 149th NDA Passing Out Parade at Khetarpal Ground, Pune. 329 cadets marched with precision, discipline, and pride. President’s Gold Medal awarded to ACA Deepak Kandpal, Silver to ACC Siddharth Singh, and Bronze to DCC… pic.twitter.com/yq5A4aJ0rz
— Research, News & Analysis (@RNA_NewsMedia) November 30, 2025
His achievement has brought pride to his family, his village and the state of Uttarakhand. It also stands as an inspiration for thousands of young aspirants across the country who dream of joining the defence forces despite financial or social hurdles. Deepak’s story reflects resilience, discipline and the belief that dedication can overcome even the toughest circumstances.
