Jammu's soil has once again witnessed an exemplary act of national service, this time through its courageous daughter. Mrigu Sambial, who recently secured All India Rank 2 in the recently declared Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2024, is set to become an officer in the Indian Army.
Education: The results of the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2024, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), were recently announced. A total of 574 candidates cleared the exam. Among these successful candidates, the most noteworthy is Mrigu Sambial from Jammu, who achieved a remarkable feat by securing All India Rank 2.
Inspired by a Legacy of National Service
Mrigu Sambial has been nurtured in a military environment since childhood. A resident of a military colony in Jammu, her family has a deep-rooted connection with national service. Her father, Jatinder Singh, serves as a DSP in the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army, while her great-grandfather was a part of Maharaja Hari Singh's Risala Force.
In essence, patriotism and discipline are ingrained in Mrigu's very being. It is no surprise that she dreamt of joining the army from a young age and consistently worked towards realizing her ambition.
Exemplary Performance in the CDS Examination
The CDS examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is considered one of India's most prestigious and challenging competitive examinations. This year, a total of 574 candidates passed the exam, with Mrigu Sambial stunning everyone by securing second rank. This exam is held for the recruitment of officers in the three armed forces: Army, Air Force, and Navy. It involves a rigorous process including a written examination, SSB interview, and medical fitness tests.
Hard Work and Discipline: The Keys to Success
Mrigu attributes her success to regular study, self-discipline, and focus. She stated, "My family's military and police background has been a source of inspiration for me. I studied at a fixed time every day, identified my weaknesses, and consistently worked to improve them. I prepared not just to pass the exam, but to become an ideal officer." She added that distancing herself from social media, limiting mobile phone usage, and regularly practicing mock tests helped her maintain focus.
Parental Pride
Mrigu's historic achievement has filled her entire family with immense joy. Her father, Jatinder Singh, said, "Mrigu has carried forward our family tradition. As a father, I am immensely proud that my daughter is going to become an officer in the Indian Army." Her mother, Anita Sambial, emotionally stated, "Mrigu's hard work and dedication have brought her to this point. She has been disciplined and focused on her goals since childhood. We were confident that she would achieve something great one day."
New Inspiration for Jammu and Kashmir
Mrigu Sambial's achievement has filled the state of Jammu and Kashmir with pride. Many administrative officials, teachers, youth, and local people have congratulated her. Social media is also abuzz with positive responses for Mrigu. Her success has become a source of inspiration, especially for girls aspiring to join the armed forces.
What is the CDS Examination?
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is conducted twice a year by the UPSC. This examination is for the recruitment of officers in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree from a recognized university to be eligible for the CDS examination.
The selection process involves a written examination followed by a Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, which evaluates mental, physical, and leadership capabilities.
Having successfully cleared the CDS, Mrigu will now join the relevant military academy for her training. There, she will receive physical, technical, and leadership training. Once her training is complete, she will serve in the army as a commissioned officer.