On Saturday, that bond came full circle when the brother-sister duo marched in unison as they passed out as officers from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), becoming the first from their village to join the Indian Army.
Speaking to reporters after the passing-out parade, the siblings said the demanding training felt easier because they always had each other’s support.
“It was my brother who inspired me to get into the armed forces, nudging me to give SSB (Services Selection Board) a try. The training was a fun experience as we looked out for each other. I was recommended for the academy five times, and joined this time as I got my brother as my coursemate,” said Mansi, 25, the elder sibling who pursued LLB from Delhi University.
Mansi is set to join the Army Aviation Regiment.
Priyanshu, 23, who completed a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics, said their father’s dedication played a crucial role in shaping their journey.
“Both of us were motivated by our father, who was an RDC cadet. He worked hard for us all his life, waking up as early as 4 am every day to drive us to tuitions. We are making him proud today. It is a matter of pride and privilege for me to receive training alongside my sister to serve this beautiful country,” he said.Priyanshu will join the infantry’s Sikh Regiment.
For their father, Vijender Bahadur Dixit, the moment marked the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
“I feel complete realising that my children achieved my dreams. When I was a student, I was also an NCC student. I wanted to join the forces too. I was selected too, but I was medically unfit. Though I couldn’t fulfil my dream, I feel proud that my children got into the army,” he said.
Their achievement has brought pride not just to the family but also to their village, where the siblings have become a source of inspiration for young aspirants dreaming of joining the armed forces.
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