Q: Can you give a brief introduction of yourself?
Hi, I’m Navya Baisoya, and I’m from Delhi. I’ve completed my BA in Political Science from Maitreyi College. During my time there, I was actively involved in various societies. I was a member of Trenchant, the English debating society, and served as the PR Head of the Environmental Club. I was also the Junior Under Officer of NCC, which was an incredible experience.
Q: What led you to join NCC?
Joining NCC has a bit of a story behind it. Back in 8th grade, my school introduced us to NCC and its different wings. I was especially fascinated by the Air Force wing. It quickly became my favourite. But when I expressed interest, I was told my Maths’ skills weren’t strong enough to qualify for that wing.
Later, I learned about the Youth Exchange Program, where cadets get to represent India as ambassadors in other countries, and I knew I had to be part of NCC. Thus for the same I started preparing for All India Thal Sainik Camp which is the largest camp of Army Wing NCC and third after Youth Exchange Program and Republic Day Camp which would help me getting into the the Republic Day Camp directly into the second cadre .but unfortunately could not make it to the final team of AITSC 2022 because of small differences in scores and similarly I could not get selected for Republic Day Camp due to lack of experience and practice.
It was heartbreaking since it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but I always encourage my juniors to go for it. Although I didn’t make it, I believe God had other plans for me. In my third year, I again gave selections for All India Thal Sainik Camp 2023 and finally made it to the team . I went to the camp and the experience and exposure I received was truly life changing.
Currently I'm preparing for CDS and doing my masters in political science but the discipline, camaraderie , respect and honour I gained through NCC stays unmatched.
NCC became so much more than just an extracurricular for me. It’s still a big part of who I am.I also got the privilege to represent Maitreyi College being a part of the NCC. Also it gave me the opportunity to meet dignitaries, such as Major General Gagan Deep Bakshi , Captain Dharamveer Singh and many more . It’s an experience I’ll always cherish.
Ques. How has NCC helped you to change your life and perspective?
NCC taught me that nothing worthwhile comes easy and that consistency, not just talent, is the key to success. It transformed my perspective on discipline and instilled the value of ‘Service before Self.’
I noticed changes in myself too. My posture, speech, and overall demeanour became more refined and disciplined. Joining NCC wasn’t planned, but it showed me the power of embracing life’s twists. The best part? It’s all about teamwork. Success is never individual; it’s always the team’s effort that counts.
Q: How did you manage your academics with NCC and various other cultural activities like debating, of which you have been a part?
Being from the Political Science department, debating was a regular part of our classes. To manage everything, I made sure to inform my professors about my debate schedules in advance. I also had a friend who kept me updated on classes, assignments, and presentations, especially since catching up after a month-long camp could be tough. I regularly communicated with my professors, requesting adjustments for test dates so I could still participate in all activities while staying on top of my academics.
Q: How do you handle the intimidating and high-pressure environment of debating events?
People often say that confidence is the key, but it’s not just about that. I practiced debating at every opportunity, whether it was in school events or volunteering to speak on topics in class. Participating in numerous events helped me not only practice but also learn from other speakers. When I joined Trenchant in my final year of college, it really boosted my confidence. There’s no secret to how I handled debates. I just practised, enjoyed the experience, and kept pushing myself. It was my consistency and passion that kept me going.
Q: You performed live at the Prime Minister’s rally in 2024, which was broadcast on Doordarshan. How did it feel to be featured on national TV?
We performed a ten-minute song, but honestly, those ten minutes flew by in an instant because I was so caught up in the moment. It wasn’t just me, everyone involved had practised intensely, to the point where our legs were swollen and it felt like giving up at times. I was appointed as a 2nd senior of the Prime Minister's Rally National Camp in my junior year when I was at the rank of sergeant among all cadets which ultimately led to extra responsibility of keeping track of the teams and other details, which was tough. But once I performed, I was so glad I didn’t give up during the hardest parts. The love I received made it all worth it. The feeling was indescribable; it was truly ethereal.
Q: Receiving the Directorate General Medallion is a great honour. What is the procedure for this, and how did you achieve it?
The Directorate General Medallion is awarded to only fourteen candidates all over India by the DG NCC Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh (PVSM,AVSM,VSM) and it was really a prestigious honour. Each state has an Additional Directorate General (ADG), who is subordinate to the Directorate General. My Commanding Officer (CO) nominated me, and then each college submits the names of cadets to the ADG. It’s up to the ADG to decide who receives the medallion.
During my All India Thal Sainik Camp , which was conducted in Delhi Cantt at the Cariappa Parade Ground, I participated in many activities, so I had a feeling I might be selected for the ADG, but I never expected the DG Medallion. One day, I received a message from the CO of my battalion , who shared a PDF with the title "DG Medallion," and there, I saw my name. I was over the moon. This was a dream I had manifested in 2022, and it became a reality in 2024.
What ultimately led to me earning the medallion was not just excelling in drills; they also consider your character, activeness, and overall contribution.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
Right now, I’ve applied for my master’s and plan to pursue a PhD because I want to continue my education until I achieve a doctorate. Along with that, I’m eager to serve my nation’s forces and see myself in a uniform, which is why I’m currently preparing for CDS and CSE.I believe one can serve the country in any profession, but wearing a uniform has always been a dream of mine; it truly resonates with my personality. My great-grandfather was a part of the Indian National Army, so I want to keep that spirit of the armed forces alive. However, if things don’t go as planned, I would still consider a career in the IPS. If not in the police services, I would explore the educational field.
HIGHLIGHTS:
1)Performed live at the Prime Minister's Rally 2023, which was telecast live by Doordarshan.
2) Awarded the prestigious Directorate General Medallion, presented by Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh (AVS,PVSM,VSM).
3) Served as the Cultural Head of the Delhi Directorate at AITSC 2023.
4) Appointed Camp Senior at the Prime Minister's Rally 2023.
5)Only NCC cadet to win the debate competition at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee College for Women, NCC for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024).
6)First cadet from the Delhi Directorate to win first prize in public speaking at the prestigious All India Thal Sainik Camp 2023, competing against all 16 directorates.
7)Held the rank of Sergeant in NCC Maitreyi, the highest rank given to a junior cadet in 2022-2023.
8)Participated in the Guard of Honour for the Additional Director General and Group Commander during their visit to the Annual Training Camp (ATC) 2023.
9) Featured on You tube and LinkedIn by Voice Of Red Hackle( India's first NCC Podcast)
10) Participated and won the first prize in inter college NCC fest
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