JAMMU, Jan 24: For the first time, Ekta Kumari, an NCC cadet from Jammu and Kashmir, will lead the National Cadet Corps (NCC) girls’ contingent at the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi on January 26.
Ekta, a resident of Akhnoor in the Jammu region, is a prominent cadet of the NCC’s first Jammu and Kashmir Naval Unit. She is currently pursuing her BSc at Gandhi Nagar Government College for Women.
This achievement has brought immense pride to Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, said Defence PRO Lieutenant Colonel Suneel Bartwal.
Inspired by her father, a retired soldier from the 12 Jammu and Kashmir (JAK) Light Infantry, Ekta’s desire to serve the nation was ignited early in her life. She began her educational journey at Army Public School in Akhnoor, and her passion for the armed forces led her to join the NCC during her college years, Bartwal added.
Ekta’s dedication and excellence have been evident from her early days in NCC, excelling in social work and adventure activities.
“Becoming the Parade Commander of the All India Girls Contingent at Kartavya Path is the proudest moment of my life. This victory belongs to my family, my unit, and the entire Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh region,” Ekta shared.
She credited her success to the guidance and support from her mentors, including her Associate NCC Officer (ANO) and instructors. She also thanked Lieutenant Colonel Abhijeet, Drill Ustaad Jaswinder, and the team at the Nagrota NCC camp for honing her skills.
“I am deeply grateful to my Unit Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Tej Ram, Group Commander Brigadier Deepak Sajjanhar SM, Additional Director General Major General Anupinder Bevli, Contingent Commander Colonel Amit Bhardwaj, and ANO Dr. Nitika for their unwavering support,” Ekta added.
Lieutenant Colonel Bartwal remarked, “Her extraordinary accomplishment not only showcases the potential of youth from Jammu and Kashmir but also serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their dreams with determination and hard work.”