Cadet Hardik Garg has distinguished himself as a remarkable achiever by securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 2 in the UPSC NDA Exam. Originating from the Yamunanagar district of Haryana, Hardik’s journey toward this significant milestone has been characterized by dedication, discipline, and the unwavering support from his family and mentors.
### Early Life and Inspiration
Hardik was born into a family that placed a high value on education and entrepreneurship. His father serves as a senior lecturer at MMDU Ambala, and this academic background instilled in him a deep appreciation for learning. Although his family predominantly pursued business ventures, Hardik’s aspirations leaned towards a military career. He found himself captivated by the lifestyle and discipline associated with the armed forces, solidifying his commitment to this dream at an early age.
### The RIMC Journey
In 2019, Hardik took a pivotal step by enrolling in the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), beginning his journey in class 8. This decision proved transformative, as RIMC provided him with invaluable experiences that laid the groundwork for a future in the military. The institution’s rigorous environment emphasized all facets of military life, fostering essential attributes such as leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
Life as a cadet at RIMC is marked by a structured and disciplined routine, which played an integral role in Hardik’s personal development. His day commenced with reveille at 5:00 AM, leading into intense physical training (PT) and drill sessions designed to build endurance and energize the students. Nutritious breakfasts at the Cadet Mess equipped them for the academic classes that extended until 2:00 PM. The curriculum placed a strong emphasis on communication skills through group discussions and public speaking exercises.
After lunch, cadets engaged in a variety of physical activities, from sports to workouts, enhancing both mental and physical coordination. Following the evening roll call at 6:00 PM, time was allocated for study preparation, allowing cadets to focus on their academics. The day would conclude with lights out by 10:30 PM. This holistic approach, complemented by inter-section competitions and educational outings, effectively prepared Hardik for future challenges.
### Overcoming Challenges and Preparing for the NDA Exam
However, Hardik’s path to the NDA exam was not without its challenges. Studying alongside coursemates and mentors, he benefited greatly from the supportive environment that encouraged collaboration and motivation. This camaraderie was vital in nurturing a spirit of excellence among them.
His initial attempt at the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview ended in disappointment when he was screened out. Facing this setback was undeniably tough, but the encouragement from his commandant and peers bolstered his resolve. Instead of being deterred, Hardik viewed the experience as a learning opportunity and committed himself to even more intense preparation for his second attempt.
Crucial to his success was the friendship and partnership with his roommate, Anmol, who achieved AIR-1 in NDA 152. Together, they honed their preparation tactics, focusing on enhancing their knowledge, communication abilities, and problem-solving approaches. With Anmol’s support, Hardik was determined to leave no stone unturned in his preparation. When he ultimately cleared the SSB interview and reached AIR-2 in the NDA exam, it was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
### Reflecting on the Journey
Hardik’s achievement in the NDA exam highlights not just his resilience but also the strong foundation nurtured at RIMC. He acknowledges that the structured life at the institution, combined with the unwavering support from his family and mentors, played a crucial role in his success. As he reflects on his journey, Hardik recognizes that every sacrifice made along the way has been worthwhile, culminating in the realization of his dreams.
His story serves as a beacon of inspiration for numerous aspiring defense candidates, illustrating that determination, appropriate guidance, and an indomitable spirit can lead to accomplishments despite obstacles. As he gears up for the next chapter of his military career at the National Defence Academy, Hardik stands as a formidable representative of dedication and excellence.
