Once brick-kiln worker, Faridkot’s youth clears NDA exam

From working in paddy fields and brick kilns to clearing the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam, the journey of 24-year-old Akash Deep is nothing short of inspiration.

A resident of Kot Sukhia village near Kotkapura in Faridkot, Akash Deep recently cleared the exam. His achievement has brought pride not only to his family but also to the entire village.

Born into a family of daily wagers, life was never easy for Akash. His parents Hakam Singh and Kuldeep Kaur worked at several brick kilns in Faridkot and Moga districts. The family often lived in temporary labour quarters and struggled to make ends meet.

Akash’s efforts paid off when the NDA results were announced last month. However, the family initially kept the news private, thinking to let him first complete the training.

It only became public after Kotkapura MLA and Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan visited the family to congratulate them two days ago.

Speaking to The Tribune, Kuldeep Kaur said, “Akash did his Class X from the government senior secondary school in our village and Class XII from the government meritorious school in Mohali. He helped us by working in fields, brick kilns and grain markets. Despite financial hardships, he remained focused on his dream to become an officer.”

Joined IAF four years ago

Sharing more about his journey, she added, “Akash joined the Indian Air Force four years ago at an entry-level position but never stopped preparing for officer-level exam. During his leave, he would go straight to Chandigarh for preparation, spending little time at home. I am illiterate and don’t even exactly remember his rank in the Air Force. He is currently posted in Ahmedabad.”

She also shared a message for others in similar situations, saying, “We have lived a hard life, surviving on labour and hope, and we are so proud of Akash. May his story inspire other children from poor families to fulfil their dream.”

Emotional Kuldeep Kaur further said that after Akash joined the Air Force, both she and her husband stopped doing labour work.

“We have just two children. My daughter, the younger one, is pursuing BEd and wants to become a teacher,” she said.

Akash’s father Hakam Singh, said, “He always worked hard without ever complaining. We have seen difficult days, but today our son has made us proud. We are thankful to the almighty.”

The family is now waiting for their hero to come home on leave and give him a grand welcome.