State’s Devika Kainthla clinches top spot among women in NDA exam

Devika Kainthla, a 19-year-old student from Narkanda, has emerged as the national topper among women in the National Defence Academy (NDA) test.

She ranked number one in women, while she ranked 29 in the test amongst 641 candidates. Devika, who reported to NDA, Khadakwalsa, in Pune recently, cited Dr Seema Rao, country’s first female commando trainer as her inspiration.

Born to Durga Singh Kainthla, a lawyer at the state High Court, and Sharmila Kanthla, a homemaker, she completed her school education from Convent of Jesus and Mary, Shimla.

She passed out of Class XII from DAV, New Shimla, where she emerged as the North Zone topper, securing 98.2 per cent. She then joined Delhi University’s Miranda House, where she was pursuing a Bachelor in Arts (honours) in Economics course. She excelled as a NCC cadet and a public speaker during her time at college.

Earlier this year, she was also felicitated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for her academic achievements.

Speaking on her achievement, her father said she had earlier aspired to be an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and was very dedicated towards her goal. He said she had also expressed interest in serving in the Army.

Devika said, with her efforts, she wanted to convey the message that anyone could achieve their goals with hardwork and dedication.

Being an officer in the Army was not just a career for her, but a purpose, she added.

She accredited her success to her parents, teachers, sister and friends, thanking them for supporting her during her journey.