In an era where resilience and determination define success, Rajarshi Baruah, a 25-year-old from the small village of Sareng in Assam, epitomizes these qualities through his remarkable journey of perseverance in the face of repeated challenges. After six failed attempts over six years, he finally achieved his dream of clearing the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam, earning a commission as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army, and earning a prestigious posting in Siachen.
The Seed of Inspiration
Rajarshi Baruah’s journey began during a vacation when he witnessed an army officer conducting a briefing for troops at Rangiya railway junction. This sight left a profound impact on him, igniting a deep desire to join the armed forces. With a background in BTech from the Central Institute of Technology in Kokrajhar, he began his preparation for the CDS exam, familiarizing himself with the application process and course requirements through online research.
Despite facing numerous setbacks, Rajarshi Baruah’s resolve only strengthened. “I experienced failure six times, but I did not give up,” he recounted, emphasizing that each failure was met with renewed energy and determination to succeed. This mindset not only encapsulated his approach to the CDS but reflects a broader lesson on perseverance that resonates widely among aspirants of competitive examinations.
The Road to Success: Overcoming Challenges
The path wasn’t easy; with each failed attempt, there were moments of doubt. Family support was crucial, but after several setbacks in the CDS exams, his parents suggested he might consider other career paths, such as taking state police exams. However, despite their good intentions, Rajarshi Baruah also faced setbacks in these endeavors. “I have faced many failures in this short span of my life, but the failures have taught me that if we truly want to achieve something in life and dedicate our energy to it, we can achieve our goals,” he shared.
Rajarshi Baruah understood that the key to overcoming these hurdles lay in effective preparation. He opted for self-study, utilizing available online resources and materials to equip himself for the challenges that lay ahead. This independent study strategy paid dividends, laying the groundwork for his eventual success.
A Pivotal Decision: Training for Selection
Rajarshi Baruah recognized that clearing the written exam was just the beginning. The real challenge awaited him in the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, which comprises psychological tests and personal interviews that evaluate not only knowledge but also personality traits. To tackle this significant hurdle, he enrolled in a two-week training program at an institute in Bengaluru, which proved vital in preparing him for the rigorous selection criteria.
His dedication and hard work culminated in a turning point—Baruah cleared his interview on the first attempt in Allahabad, marking a significant milestone in his path to becoming a commissioned officer. This achievement is not just personal but serves as an inspirational narrative for many young aspirants who find themselves facing similar challenges.
A Proud Commission
Rajarshi Baruah’s success story reached its climax when he earned his commission as a Lieutenant. He joined the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers and was assigned to the 19th Mahar Regiment. His first deployment was in Siachen, recognized as the world’s highest battlefield, a testament to his capabilities and the trust placed in him by the Indian Army.
After completing a rigorous year-long training program at the Officer Training Academy (OTA), he returned home—a joyful occasion filled with pride for his parents, friends, and community. As they celebrated his status as an officer in the Indian Army, there was also a sense of apprehension about sending their only son 1,700 kilometers away to serve in such a challenging environment.
The Broader Impact of Baruah’s Journey
Rajarshi Baruah’s journey is a vital reminder of the importance of resilience and hard work when pursuing one’s dreams. His unwavering determination exemplifies how one can overcome repeated failures by maintaining focus and seeking continuous self-improvement. Young aspirants can learn valuable lessons from his story: prepare effectively, engage with quality resources, and, most importantly, develop a mindset that embraces challenges rather than shirks from them.
Baruah serves as a source of inspiration not just in Guwahati or Assam but across India, encouraging countless students and young professionals striving to achieve their own goals, especially in competitive fields like the military. His victory over adversity parallels the ambitions of many hopefuls aspiring to secure a place in the armed forces or other challenging careers.
Final Thoughts
As Rajarshi Baruah continues his journey with the Indian Army, his story highlights the essence of perseverance, determination, and the capability to rise after fall. His narrative can motivate many, reminding them that challenges are merely stepping stones towards success. The world awaits more such inspirational stories that redefine the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity, making Rajarshi Baruah a true hero and a beacon of hope for future generations of aspirants.
In the world of competitive examinations, his example underscores the message that success is indeed possible
