When Gollu Vema Nageswararao faced rejections during selection camps, he never imagined that he would soon be heading to New Delhi to participate in the Republic Day Parade 2025 rehearsals. Representing the 13th Andhra Battalion (Army Wing), the Visakhapatnam-based NCC cadet successfully cleared eight rigorous selection camps, including the combined annual training camp, inter-group competition, and pre-RDC, to earn a spot in the prestigious parade.

Born to G Varahala Babu, a farmer from Vemulapudi in Narsipatnam, and G Sarojini, a construction worker, Nageswararao is currently pursuing a course in mechanic machine tool maintenance at the Government (Old) Industrial Training Institute in Kancharapalem, Visakhapatnam.

Now stationed in New Delhi, Nageswararao is rehearsing for the Republic Day Parade. Sharing his excitement, he says, “For NCC cadets, participating in the Republic Day Parade is a dream come true. I never expected to make it through the selection camps, but luck and hard work favored me.”

Consistent improvement at each stage was key to his success. “My focus was to excel in every camp. Gradually, I became one of the few selected for the parade,” he shares, adding that he is thrilled to take part in the NCC Prime Minister’s Rally, an integral part of the RDC. 

Looking ahead, Nageswararao aspires to secure a career in the defense sector to achieve financial stability and provide a better standard of living for his parents.