About Centurion Defence Academy
Centurion Defence Academy stands as India’s premier institute for defence career preparation, committed to building the next generation of leaders for the Indian Armed Forces. Since its inception in 2008, Centurion has been synonymous with excellence, trust, and unparalleled results in officer-cadre entries like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, MNS, and Foundation courses for early starters after class 8th and 10th.
With a mission rooted in Satya (integrity), Sena (Patriotism), and Sanskar (Values system), Centurion envisions every family contributing to the nation progress through serving in the armed forces. The Academy nurtures aspirants not just academically but holistically—physically, psychologically and morally.
Pan-India Presence, Outstanding Results
Operating from its Centers of Excellence in Lucknow (Alambagh & Indira Nagar) and Dehradun, along with multiple study centers, Centurion Defence Academy proudly leads the nation in defence exam selections. With 3–4 officer selections every week, the Academy’s success stands as a testament to its consistency and authenticity.
Centurion has achieved remarkable milestones, especially in empowering women candidates. In the NDA-154th course alone, 10 out of 27 girl candidates recommended nationwide were from Centurion, earning it the reputation of producing “every 4th girl at NDA is a proud Centurion”.
Consistently producing All India Ranks 1 to 9, Centurion’s legacy is unmatched, and its genuine success stories are honestly showcased across various platforms, including its official YouTube channel. [Over 550k subs]
Elite Training Programs – Shaping Leaders of Tomorrow!
Centurion offers comprehensive coaching for:
– NDA, CDS, AFCAT, MNS
– SSB Interview Coaching, backed by a team of DIPR-trained assessors and experienced defence exam and ssb interview mentors.
– Foundation Programs (Post class 8th & 10th) for early NDA preparation.
– CPSS training with guidance from a retired Air Force pilots, equipped with modern tools for aspirants aiming for flying branches in Indian Air Force.
Uniquely, Centurion integrates written exam training with SSB preparation from day one; equipping aspirants with the skills and confidence to excel at every stage of the selection process.
Specialized Batches for Intensive, Goal-Oriented Learning
To cater to diverse learning needs, Centurion offers:
– English-only batches
– Hindi-only ‘BrahMos‘ batch
– Bilingual ‘Tejas & Sukhoi’ batches
– Exclusive ‘Pragati’ batch for NDA girls—India’s leading NDA girls-only batch with record-breaking results.
Additional Spoken English sessions are provided for Hindi-medium students to enhance their communication skills for the SSB and future endeavours.
Premier Infrastructure Designed for Elite Defence Exam Training
Centurion provides state-of-the-art infrastructure creating an ideal setting for focused and impactful learning.
– Modern day smart classrooms with digital boards and audio-visual aids.
– Hybrid learning model via the Centurion Digital App for flexible study.
– Centurion Air Library fully equipped for self-study and digital learning.
– Weekly mock tests & daily doubt clearing sessions for continuous evaluation and concept building.
– India’s largest GTO ground with 165+ obstacles in Lucknow and Dehradun Centre separately replicating actual SSB GTO layouts, designed by senior GTOs.
– Well-equipped hostels and mess facilities, nutritious home-made meals, monitored by staff for hygiene and discipline.
– Dedicated transportation for GTO ground practice, educational trips, and cultural exposure.
The hostel environment reflects a ‘Mini India,’ promoting national unity while instilling discipline through daily PT, dedicated self-study hours at co-located air-conditioned library, and close mentorship.
Exceptional Mentorship for Exceptional Results
What sets Centurion apart from the crowd is its team of 10+ dedicated full-time ssb interview mentors and assessors including:
– Par Excellence Chief Defence Exam Mentor & SSB Psychology Mentor, Shishir Dixit Sir.
– Ex-DIPR trained assessors and Retired Defence Officers.
-50+ dedicated full time mentors for written exam preparation having rich experience of more than 10+ years.
Centurion mentors provide individualized feedback and personalized attention and each student receives dedicated mentorship aimed at fostering OLQs [Officer Like Qualities] like critical thinking, crisis management, adaptability, leadership through service, and conflict resolution and resourcefulness.
Students also receive a complimentary copy of the India’s No. 01 SSB Book “Ranneeti” authored by Shishir Dixit Sir Chief Defence Exam Mentor upon clearing the written exam.
At the time of enrollment, students receive a complimentary Centurion Student Kit, which includes study material, a bag, a t-shirt, and more.
Integrated Personality Development and Leadership Grooming
Centurion shapes Leaders of tomorrow:
– Daily physical training and regular fitness assessments.
– Cultural and leadership-building activities such as treks, marathons, Greenathon, NDA/IMA visits, Kavi Sammelan, and celebrating National Days of Importance to enrich the student experience.
– Leadership sessions with IAS, IPS, and senior defence officers on weekends.
– Regular interactions with successful alumni of Centurion Defence Academy for insights and motivation.
– One-on-one counselling for emotional and mental fitness.
– Recognition and rewards through medals, certificates, and performance acknowledgements.
Parental involvement is a priority, with regular attendance monitoring and performance updates shared directly with guardians.
Awards & Recognition
Centurion’s excellence has been acknowledged with over 20 prestigious awards from dignitaries including the Defence Minister of India Shri Rajnath Singh, CM Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath, Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.)Former Deputy Chief of Army Staff, CM Uttarakhand Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, and other eminent personalities.
Why Centurion Defence Academy?
– Most trusted brand in defence exam prep since 2008.
– Consistently producing top ranks and highest genuine final selections in NDA, IMA OTA, AFA and Naval Academy.
– Authentic, student-first approach with proven goal-oriented strategies.
– Mentorship beyond academics, focusing on character and leadership building.
– Honest results, inspiring success stories, and community trust.
Centurion is not just an Elite Training Institute— more than an institute — it is a family, a mission, and a movement where students prepare not just for defence exams, but for a life of service in uniform.
Best NDA Coaching Institute in India
Centurion Defence Academy is a popular choice among defence aspirants for the best NDA preparation in India. The Academy offers holistic guidance for NDA with Written + SSB courses.
Holistic Guidance for SSB Interview
With a strong focus on Screening Tests (OIR and PP&DT), Psychological Tests, GTO, and Personal Interview, Centurion Defence Academy stands out as the best SSB coaching in India for all officer cadre entries.
Best Coaching for CDS and AFCAT
Centurion also provides comprehensive guidance for graduate entries such as CDS and AFCAT. Besides, focusing on excellence in written exams, it also prepares candidates for SSB interview.
Top MNS Coaching (NEET+MNS)
With consistently outstanding results in the MNS exam, Centurion Defence Academy has established itself as the best MNS coaching in India, offering comprehensive guidance for NEET+MNS.
Specialization in NDA Foundation Course
To empower NDA aspirants to achieve their dream of joining the NDA at an early age, Centurion offers its NDA Foundation Course, which focuses on 11th and 12th along with NDA preparation.
Complete CPSS Guidance for Flying Branch
Centurion Defence Academy also specializes in providing the best CPSS training to defence aspirants who wish to become fighter pilots in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force.
To ensure your success in defence exams, we have designed our coaching program in a digitally robust and technically advanced manner that develops both your knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Our team comprises experienced and renowned faculty members and ex-officers of the Indian Armed Forces to help you become an officer. Our faculty members are dedicated and devoted individuals of the highest caliber with a genuine concern for building your future in the armed forces. The academic environment and infrastructure at Centurion Defence Academy are highly encouraging, which will help you achieve your dreams.
Join the Centurion Legacy of Excellence, Leadership and Dedication.
If you aspire to wear the uniform and serve the nation, Centurion Defence Academy is your trusted partner on this journey. With Centurion’s expert guidance, disciplined environment, and unwavering commitment to your success, the stars on your shoulder are not just a dream—they’re your destiny.
March towards your goal with Centurion Defence Academy.
Where every dream takes flight. Jai Hind!
Watch success story at our official YouTube channel
Our Elite Panel of Ex-Board Members & Retd. Defence Officers
Psychologist Shishir Dixit
Chairman of Centurion Defence Academy, Lucknow & Dehradun Center, Author of Ranneeti Book
Psychologist Shishir Dixit, Par Excellence, is the Chairman of Centurion Defence Academy, with centers in Lucknow and Dehradun. He specializes in clinical psychology, behavioral therapy, mentorship, and individual profile mapping, as well as career counseling and guidance. With a remarkable ability to produce 3-4 officers weekly, he has set a milestone in the selection of defence aspirants into the officer cadre of the Indian Armed Forces through his personalized training and individual guidance. His strategic foresight and strong leadership have established Centurion Defence Academy as the best defence coaching institute in India. Additionally, Shishir Dixit is an accomplished author of the book “Ranneeti,” a columnist, and a motivational speaker. He strives to instill in his students the principles of servant leadership, such as empathy, humility, integrity, and social adaptability, while nurturing defence aspirants with traits of discipline, commitment, and selfless service to the nation.
Maj Gen A.K. Chaturvedi (Retd.) AVSM, VSM
Trained IO (DIPR), Interviewing Officer Lucknow Center
Major General A.K. Chaturvedi, is a distinguished veteran of the Indian Army, whose career commenced as a Second Lieutenant and culminated as a Major General. Commissioned in the Indian Army’s Corps of Engineers (Bengal Sappers) in December 1974, he retired in July 2012. Across his commendable career, spanning from Second Lieutenant to Major General, he oversaw crucial infrastructural development and personnel management in the Military Engineer Services. Trained as an Interviewing Officer at the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Government of India, Major General A.K. Chaturvedi is currently associated with Centurion Defence Academy as a Senior IO. His role involves guiding young aspirants to fulfil their dreams of joining the Defence Services and serving in the esteemed Officer Cadre.
MAJ GEN Shammi Sabharwal (Retd.)
Interviewing Officer, SSB Mentor Dehradun Center
Maj Gen Shammi Sabharwal, an alumnus of RIMC Dehradun and the National Defence Academy Khadakwasla, dedicated 38 illustrious years of service to the Indian Army. Commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery in December 1981, he held a diverse array of influential roles, showcasing his exceptional leadership and expertise. With two instructional appointments at the School of Artillery, Devlali, and a significant stint as a military observer with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Rwanda, Africa, Maj Gen Sabharwal’s experience spanned varied terrains. He later served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Uttarakhand Sub Area in Dehradun. His subsequent role as Additional Director General NCC (Bihar & Jharkhand) underscored his commitment to shaping young minds. Beyond his military achievements, Maj Gen Sabharwal is an avid reader and an advocate for physical fitness. Presently, his expertise contributes significantly as an Interviewing Officer at Centurion Defence Academy, reflecting his ongoing dedication to mentorship and national defence.
Col Rajesh Kumar Sharma (Retd.)
GTO Lucknow Center, Ex GTO-bhopal & Kapurthala
Colonel Rajesh Kumar Sharma is a distinguished defence professional with an extensive career spanning over three decades. An alumnus of the IMA Dehradun, he commenced his journey with the Regiment of Artillery in June 1986. Colonel R.K. Sharma holds a distinctive role as a former Ground Testing Officer (GTO) at Bhopal and Kapurthala SSBs, enriching his role in guiding defence aspirants at the Centurion Defence Academy in Lucknow. His invaluable experience has honed his expertise in guiding and mentoring defence aspirants through the intricate facets of individual and group obstacles, thereby enriching their understanding of GTO tasks. Presently settled in Lucknow, Colonel Sharma remains deeply committed to his role at the Centurion Defence Academy, where his dedication and profound insights as a GTO continue to inspire and shape the aspiring candidates seeking to join the defence forces.
Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur (Retd.)
Medical Expert – CDA
Dr. (Col) Ajay Bahadur is an esteemed medical expert at the Centurion Defence Academy (CDA), boasting an extensive array of professional qualifications including an M.B.B.S. from Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, an M.D. in Internal Medicine also from A.F.M.C., Pune, and a D.M. in Cardiology from the Military Hospital (Cardio Thoracic Centre), A.F.M.C., Pune. With an impressive 31 years of clinical experience, Dr. Ajay Bahadur remains committed to providing invaluable medical guidance to defence aspirants, leveraging his expertise to empower and prepare individuals aspiring to join the Armed Forces. His wealth of knowledge and practical experience in medicine significantly contribute to the holistic preparation of candidates at Centurion Defence Academy, ensuring they possess the physical fitness and medical awareness necessary for a successful career in the defence services.
Gp Capt A Basu (Retd.)
Senior Interviewing Officer, Most experienced in SSB (12+years, 4 tenures in AFSB), Senior Mentor Centurion Lucknow & Dehradun Center
Group Captain A Basu, began his remarkable journey with the Indian Air Force in July 1992. His dedication extended to international arenas as he actively participated in Tri-Services and international flying exercises. He spent three months in Kyiv, Ukraine, overseeing the An32 upgrade acceptance. In 2011, he volunteered for the Interviewing Officers Course and continued to serve in this role for over 12 years until his retirement on 31 August 2023. During this period, he held key positions, functioning as IO, Senior IO, and Deputy President in successive AFSB tenures. Group Captain A Basu contributed significantly to candidate assessment, conducting around five thousand SSB interviews. His operational service included deployment at Kargil for over two months during Op Vijay in 1999. Currently, Group Captain A Basu shares his wealth of experience as an SSB Mentor with Centurion Defence Academy.
Col Psychologist P. Chakraborty (Retd.)
SSB Psychology Mentor - Centurion Defence Academy
Psychologist P. Chakraborty is a skilled and perceptive psychology expert who significantly enhances the SSB Interview Preparation ecosystem at Centurion Defence Academy. With a strong academic grounding in psychology and a thorough understanding of the SSB evaluation process, he brings focus, clarity, and confidence to the psychological testing phase. His core strength lies in assessing personality traits, behavioural patterns, and Officer Like Qualities (OLQs), helping aspirants develop responses that reflect genuine officer potential. As a vital member of the SSB Interview Preparation Mentor Team at Centurion Defence Academy, Lucknow, he guides candidates through Psychological Tests such as TAT, WAT, SRT, and Self-Description using a structured and practical approach. Renowned for his engaging mentoring style and sharp psychological insight, Psychologist Chakraborti helps aspirants overcome hesitation, build emotional stability, and express their true personality under pressure. His continued dedication inspires defence aspirants to develop mental resilience, self-awareness, and a confident officer-like mindset essential for success in the SSB selection process.
Lt. Col Aditya Budhiraja (Retd.)
SSB Psychology Mentor, Dehradun Center
Lt. Col Aditya Budhiraja, an officer from the Rajput Regiment with 20 years of army experience in J&K (including Siachen) and North East, and a UN mission in Africa, pursued his interest in Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Health post retirement in 2010. Twice commended by the Vice Chief and Army Commander, he also attended the prestigious SSB psychologist course at DIPR, New Delhi. A Barefoot Counselor, Mindset Coach, Healer and Therapist, he is trained in Hypnotherapy, Pranic Healing, NLP, CDT, RFBT, Mindfulness and Meditation. On a mission to spread awareness and happiness, he has helped many people over the last 13 years. He works on issues like stress, anxiety, relationships, and parenting, while also guiding aspirants in SSB psychological techniques. Over 1000 candidates have cleared SSB under his mentorship, with 300 during the Covid years alone. Being a soldier himself, he is especially committed to giving back to the organization.
Lt. Col Amit Srivastava, SM (Retd.)
Senior GTO Lucknow & Dehradun Center
Lt. Col Amit Srivastava, is a retired officer of the Indian Army with 25 years of distinguished service. Presently, he is associated with Centurion Defence Academy as a Senior GTO at Dehradun Centre, overseeing the GTO segment of the SSB Interview. He is a trained Group Testing Officer (GTO), having completed an extensive course from the Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR). He has served at the Selection Centre, Allahabad as Sr. GTO and has also been part of the Core Team for raising a new Selection Centre at Kapurthala with two SSBs. During his tenure as a GTO at different boards, he assessed more than 10,000 candidates and appraised their suitability as per the selection parameters of the Indian Armed Forces. At Centurion Defence Academy, Lt. Col Amit Srivastava, SM, with his years of rich experience, ensures that defence aspirants are equipped with the required GTO skills and officer-like qualities to excel in their pursuits.
Lt. Col Dr. Mukul Bajpai (Retd.)
Medical Expert – Centurion Defence Academy
Lt. Col Dr. Mukul Bajpai is a respected defence expert and Panel Board Member at Centurion Defence Academy, known for his rich military experience and commitment to mentoring future officers. A former officer of the Army Medical Corps (AMC) and an alumnus of the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, he dedicated 25 years of distinguished service to the Indian Armed Forces. Throughout his career, he gained exposure to the operational, administrative, and professional standards of military life, developing a deep understanding of officer-like qualities and defence selection processes. After retiring from active service, Dr. Mukul Bajpai continues to serve the nation by guiding defence aspirants at Centurion Defence Academy. His practical insights, disciplined approach, and real-world experience help candidates prepare effectively for defence examinations and SSB interviews, playing a vital role in CDA’s holistic training system.
Lt. Col Dr. Alpana Gupta (Retd.)
Medical Expert – Centurion Defence Academy
Lt. Col Dr. Alpana Gupta is a distinguished medical professional, defence expert, and National Coordinator at Centurion Defence Academy (CDA), with over 23 years of service in the Indian Army. A former Lieutenant Colonel and alumna of the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, she has served across diverse terrains, gaining deep insight into military healthcare and operational standards. A gold-medallist pathologist, she specialises in laboratory medicine, clinical research, healthcare management, and quality assurance systems. Dr. Alpana Gupta has held faculty positions at the Army College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, and is recognised as a teacher by multiple national universities. A post-doctoral clinical researcher with several publications, she has also led blood transfusion services and trained technical personnel in critical care settings. At Centurion Defence Academy, she plays a vital role in guiding defence aspirants and ensuring holistic preparation aligned with the highest professional and medical standards of the Armed Forces.
Lt. Kaveesh Gaindhar
Ex OTA and Territorial Army, SSB Mentor and Personality Development Coach
Lt. Kaveesh Gaindhar, an accomplished Territorial Army Officer from the 11 Gorkha Rifles, joins Centurion Defence Academy’s esteemed faculty team. A four-time recommended candidate — twice through AFCAT, once via Army NCC Special Entry, and once for the Territorial Army – Lt. Gaindhar brings unmatched experience and motivation to guide future defence aspirants. He has served with distinction in Manipur with the 19 Assam Rifles and has excelled in both sports and endurance events – from representing his state in Squash and captaining OTA Chennai’s Sabiki Cup team, to earning the Marksmanship Award for best firing. A passionate athlete, he has completed multiple half and full marathons, two 100 km ultra marathons, and is set to become the first Gorkha and TA Officer to run 160 km from Jaisalmer to Longewala this December. At Centurion, Lt. Kaveesh Gaindhar stands as a symbol of grit, discipline, and dedication – inspiring aspirants to lead with courage and serve with pride.
Mrs. Gurkirat Kaur
Managing Director | Senior Defence Exam Mentor
Mrs. Gurkirat Kaur, serving as the Managing Director and Senior Defence Exam Mentor at Centurion Defence Academy, exemplifies visionary leadership and academic excellence. In her role, she is dedicated to shaping and guiding the next generation of aspiring military leaders through innovation, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence. Her specialized focus on communication skills and personality development training is integral to guiding defence aspirants toward successful careers within the Indian Armed Forces. Mrs. Kaur’s distinguished mentorship extends beyond conventional academics, instilling in candidates the requisite officer-like qualities crucial for excelling in the demanding landscape of defence services. Notably, her representation of India in Nepal under the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Youth Exchange Programme underscores her commitment to fostering international cooperation and leadership development. Her unwavering dedication, coupled with a strategic and holistic approach, plays a pivotal role in empowering defence aspirants, ensuring they embody the values, skills, and leadership essential for serving the nation with distinction.
Aditya Dubey
(PD and Eng Spoken Trainer) Academic Director - CEPL
Mr. Aditya Dubey, holding the position of Academic Director at Centurion Education Pvt. Ltd. (CEPL) and also rendering his services as the Personality Development and English Spoken Trainer, stands as a beacon of guidance and expertise, nurturing students for the past 18 years. His specialization in Competitive English, Communication Skills, and Soft Skills is instrumental in preparing and shaping the career paths of defence aspirants. Mr. Dubey’s innovative and productive teaching methodologies have been pivotal in guiding young minds towards successful careers in defence services since the establishment of CEPL. As a leading figure at Centurion Defence Academy, his leadership and dedication play a crucial role in ensuring the holistic development and readiness of young students aspiring to serve in the defence forces. His dedication to continual learning underscores his pivotal role in nurturing strong and capable individuals for the challenges of defence service.
