Lieutenant SDV Prasad Reddy’s Inspiring Journey of Perseverance in the Indian Army

In a remarkable testament to perseverance and dedication, Lieutenant SDV Prasad Reddy has emerged as a symbol of inspiration for defense aspirants across India. Commissioned...

Rejected, Tested, Never Broken: Soldier Commissioned as Officer After 20 Years in Uniform

In a remarkable testament to perseverance and dedication, Lieutenant SDV Prasad Reddy has emerged as a symbol of inspiration for defense aspirants across India. Commissioned into the Indian Army on December 6, 2025, from the Indian Military Academy, his journey reflects a narrative woven with grit, patience, and unwavering faith.

Lieutenant Reddy began his career in the Indian Army in 2005, dedicating 20 years of service to the esteemed Corps of Signals. His roots in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, are grounded in a humble upbringing characterized by discipline, hard work, and a profound sense of duty—values that have profoundly influenced his storied career.

The path to his commissioning was far from easy. Lt Reddy’s journey through the Services Selection Board (SSB) commenced in 2015, a period fraught with challenges, self-reflection, and invaluable lessons. Despite his earnest attempts, he faced repeated setbacks. After four unsuccessful tries, he received a recommendation on his fifth attempt, only to narrowly miss out on making the final merit list. For many, this would have signaled the end of their aspirations. However, for Lt Reddy, it ignited a renewed determination.

With unmatched resolve, he returned for his sixth attempt, aiming for the PC (SL) RO. This time, fortune favored his persistence. Successfully clearing both the assessment and the final merit list, his years of hard work, resilience, and determination finally culminated in success.

As he marched out of the distinguished halls of the Indian Military Academy as a commissioned Lieutenant, Lt Reddy’s story resonates profoundly: setbacks should not be viewed as failures but rather as stepping stones to success. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that dreams deferred do not equate to dreams denied, provided one possesses courage, consistency, and commitment.

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Adhidev Jasrotia

An expert in Indian defence affairs, military recruitment, and geopolitical strategy, brings a strong foundation in national security journalism. Recommended for the Indian Army with All India Rank 138.