Farmer’s daughter from Jhajjar bags AIR 14 in NDA

Rohtak: Breaking barriers and defying odds, 18-year-old Neha Siwach, daughter of a farmer from Jhajjar, has secured All India Rank 14 among women candidates in the NDA 2025 final merit list, bringing pride to Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU).A BSc Mathematics (Hons) student and NCC cadet of the 2nd Haryana Girls Battalion, Neha completed her schooling from Sarvodaya School of Science, Imlota, in Charkhi Dadri.Speaking to TOI, Neha said she is awaiting her joining letter and is likely to begin training at the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. "I relied on self-study and focused preparation, working consistently on developing Officer Like Qualities," she said.Coming from a modest background, Neha said her father is a farmer and her mother a homemaker. "Despite limited means, my parents ensured I never felt any lack that could hinder my progress," she said.She said her aim was to challenge stereotypes. "Fewer girls opt for defence services. I wanted to prove that women can excel even in demanding roles like safeguarding the nation," she added.MDU vice-chancellor Prof Milap Poonia termed it a proud moment for the university.