“From DDA’s training ground to SSB’s recommendation board – Saurav proved that calm determination beats all odds.”
When news broke that Saurav Kumar had been recommended by SSB Board Allahabad and secured AIR 39 in the final merit list, it brought a wave of joy—but for those who knew him, it also brought deep respect. Because behind this selection was not just a result—it was a story of silent struggles, sleepless nights, unshaken discipline, and pure-hearted perseverance.
The Calm Force Behind the Gloves
Saurav walked into Dehradun Defence Academy right after completing his Class 12th—sincere, disciplined, and already carrying the calm composure of a future officer. But there was more to him than met the eye. While he never sought the limelight, he was a national-level boxer, and often helped train other students for boxing matches.
He never raised his voice, never broke decorum, and was never the cause of concern for any teacher. If anything, teachers often cited him as the ideal cadet. His juniors admired him not just for his skills, but for his humility and ever-ready support. He embodied a rare balance: a fighter in the ring, and a gentleman outside it.
The First Fall – But Not the End
Saurav cracked the NDA written exam in his first attempt—a remarkable feat. But when he couldn’t clear the SSB, there was disappointment, naturally. Yet what stood out was that he never lost faith in himself. Instead of sulking or making excuses, he took it as a lesson and moved forward with even more dedication.
The next target was clear – CDSE. He reached out for help, stayed connected with his mentors at the academy, refined his preparation, and this time, he cleared all stages. His recommendation from SSB Board Allahabad was a proud moment for everyone. But fate still had one final hurdle in store.
The Final Battle Before Wearing the Olive Green
Even after getting recommended, a backlog in his 5th semester cast a shadow of uncertainty. He was tense—unsure whether he’d get passing marks and whether the university would declare the result in time. Despite having a top rank in the merit list, Saurav couldn’t celebrate.
But true to his nature, he didn’t sit and wait. He traveled to his central university, met the Registrar in person, and requested special permission for the immediate release of his result and provisional degree. The Registrar, seeing the sincerity in his eyes, obliged. That very day, Saurav returned with both his result and degree in hand—and one step closer to his dream.
What Saurav’s Story Teaches Us
There are not one, but two solid lessons here for every defence aspirant:
Never get a backlog in your 5th or 6th semester. It can create unexpected roadblocks even after selection.
But if you do… don’t panic. There’s always a way—just like Saurav found his. Keep your calm, take the right steps, and believe in resolution.
From the Himalayas to the SSB Conference Room
During his Coaching period at Dehradun Defence Academy, Saurav also pursued and completed both his Basic and Advanced Mountaineering Courses from NIMAS. These weren’t just adventurous add-ons. They taught him resilience, how to handle discomfort, bond with strangers, and lead in extreme conditions—qualities that later helped him tremendously during the SSB tasks.
When asked how he managed it all, he smiled and said, “Mountains taught me that every peak is climbable if you take one steady step at a time.”
DDA’s Salute to a True Fighter
Saurav’s journey wasn’t dramatic. It was quiet, steady, and deeply inspiring—a true example that real heroes don’t always shout their struggles; they face them with calm, resolve, and grace.
Saurav, as you step into the Indian Military Academy, know that Dehradun Defence Academy stands proud—not just of your selection, but of the human being you’ve become.
Let your story echo across our classrooms and inspire hundreds of others who dream like you once did.
We wish you a path filled with honour, service, and continued success.
Here’s an exclusive Interview with Saurav Kumar:
Read More Success Stories:
Santhwana’s Way: The Quiet Strength of Right Attitude
Tadaji’s Journey: From Humble Beginnings to OTA with Dehradun Defence Academy
Adarsh’s Journey: From Challenges to Becoming a Flying Officer with Dehradun Defence Academy
“From Dreams to Reality” Mayank’s Journey to Clear the NDA Exam with Dehradun Defence Academy
