NDA Training: Why are cadets dying during NDA training? Are the strict training rules to blame?

Every year, lakhs of candidates take the NDA exam through UPSC. This exam is extremely difficult. Candidates have to go through several stages to participate in the NDA exam. Only those candidates who excel in the NDA exam and training can secure a place in the NDA. In fact, for the past few years, the NDA has been making its exams and training even more rigorous, which is impacting the mental health of the candidates. Due to the strict rules and tough training of the NDA, the incidents of deaths and suicides among candidates have continued unabated in recent years.

What is the whole matter?
Recently, two first-year cadets died during NDA training. One cadet died due to drowning while swimming, while the other cadet committed suicide due to the rigorous NDA training. As a result, questions are now being raised continuously about the NDA training culture, and there are demands for the NDA to relax its strict rules.

Number of cadets who died this year
Several cadets have died during NDA training in 2025. First, R. Rabijeet died during training on March 28, 2025. After that, Umang Khar, who was training in Chennai, died of heatstroke on May 19. Then, on July 6, Kumbar Atharva Sambhaji died during a cross-country race. Following this, three more cadets died on September 10, October 10, and October 23.

NDA clarifies
Regarding the deaths of cadets during NDA training, the NDA has clarified that along with training, cadets are also provided guidance. Five senior officers are appointed in each squadron who interact with the cadets during training and guide them from time to time. Moreover, the NDA also organizes a confidential cadet forum where cadets can express their concerns to senior officers of the academy without any pressure or hesitation. 

During NDA training, cadets also receive psychological support. The entire counseling process is closely monitored by the battalion commander. Furthermore, the daily routine for first-term cadets is kept very flexible to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed. In addition, candidates who require extra physical assistance receive special training.

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