Dreams do not ask where you come from. They only ask how strongly you believe in them. Deepak Kandpal’s NDA success story proves this in the most powerful way. Born into a modest family in Uttarakhand, raised in a rented house, and supported by a father who drove a taxi for a living, Deepak rose to become the top cadet of the National Defence Academy, winning the President’s Gold Medal.

His journey from a small town to India’s most prestigious military honour is a story of discipline, grit, and unshakable determination.

A Childhood Dream Born in a Rented House

Deepak Kandpal comes from Garud town in Bageshwar district, Uttarakhand. From a young age, he had only one dream—to wear the Indian Army uniform. There were no luxuries, no big coaching centers, and no shortcuts. His family lived in a rented house, and money was always limited.

Yet, what Deepak had was clarity. He knew exactly what he wanted, and that purpose shaped every decision he made growing up.

A Father’s Sacrifice and Silent Support

Deepak’s father, Jeevan Chandra Kandpal, worked as a taxi driver to support the family. Every rupee earned went toward his son’s education. Despite financial pressure, his father never questioned Deepak’s ambition. Instead, he stood firmly behind it.

This quiet support became Deepak’s strength. His success today is as much his father’s victory as it is his own.

Strong Academic Foundation From School to College

Deepak studied till Class 8 at St. Adams Public School, Garud, and later joined Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Gagrigola, where he studied from Class 9 to Class 12. His hard work paid off when he became the district topper in the Class 12 board exams.

After school, he secured admission to Delhi University for graduation. Managing college studies along with UPSC NDA preparation was not easy, but Deepak stayed focused. He knew that consistency mattered more than comfort.

Cracking NDA and Surviving Three Years of Rigorous Training

Deepak cracked the UPSC NDA exam in 2022, earning his place at the National Defence Academy. The next three years were physically demanding, mentally exhausting, and deeply transformative.

At NDA, Deepak excelled not just in academics, but also in physical training, leadership, and discipline. His consistent performance across all areas made him stand out among hundreds of cadets.

Winning the President’s Gold Medal at NDA

In December 2025, during the 149th Passing Out Parade of NDA, Deepak Kandpal achieved the highest honour a cadet can receive. He was awarded the President’s Gold Medal, recognizing him as the best all-round cadet of his batch.

The medal was presented by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi. As Cadet Adjutant of Alpha Squadron, Deepak stood tall—representing years of sacrifice, effort, and belief.

A Moment of Pride for the Nation and Rural India

Deepak’s achievement brought pride not only to his family but also to his hometown and countless young aspirants across India. His journey sends a clear message: your background does not define your future.

With limited resources but unlimited determination, Deepak Kandpal proved that dreams grow stronger when they are backed by discipline and purpose.

What We Learn From Deepak Kandpal’s NDA Success Story

Deepak’s life teaches us that success is not built overnight. It is built every morning you wake up and choose effort over excuses. From a rented house in Uttarakhand to the parade ground of NDA, his story is a reminder that passion, perseverance, and faith can overcome any limitation.

Today, Deepak Kandpal stands ready to serve the nation—wearing the uniform he once dreamed of as a young boy.