History

Uniquely, RMS Dholpur is the youngest of the five Rashtriya Military Schools and the only one established post-independence. The school is situated in the historic Kesarbagh Palace, generously donated by Maharaj Udaibhan Singh of Dholpur. The foundation stone of the school was laid by Late Shri V.K. Krishna Menon, then Honourable Defence Minister of India. The school was formally inaugurated on 18th August 1962. In 1965, Honourable Defence Minister Shri Y. B. Chavan also visited the campus, reinforcing the school's relevance in national defence education initiatives.

Under the pioneering leadership of Founder Principal Lt Col K.L. Ghai, supported by 16 staff members, the school commenced operations with 75 cadets enrolled in Classes V to VII. Initially functioning out of Udaibhan and Vikram Houses within the palace premises, the school rapidly expanded in scale and scope.

Vision & Mission

The primary mission of the institution is to provide holistic education while preparing cadets for induction into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other prestigious institutions of the Armed Forces. The school originally embraced the motto "Play the Game", promoting sportsmanship and fair conduct. In alignment with its evolving vision, the motto was later changed to "Character is the Highest Virtue", reflecting a deeper commitment to integrity, moral strength, and leadership.

The name of the institution underwent several changes in its journey of evolution—from King George's School to Dholpur Military School in 1966, and later to Military School Dholpur in 2000. In April 2007, a unified nomenclature was introduced for all five military schools, leading to its present title: Rashtriya Military School, Dholpur.

By 1970, in response to increasing enrolment and expanding academic activities, a new residential campus was planned and developed on an adjacent hillock. The construction was completed in 1974, providing the institution with modern infrastructure to support a vibrant academic and co-curricular environment.

Decades of Distinction

Over the decades, Rashtriya Military School, Dholpur, has proudly celebrated significant milestones that reflect its enduring legacy and pursuit of excellence. The Silver Jubilee in 1987 was a nostalgic gathering for the pioneering batches, marked by vibrant activities such as aero-modelling, para-sailing, dramatics, and art exhibitions. It offered alumni a touching opportunity to relive their memories and witness the remarkable growth of their alma mater.

The Golden Jubilee in 2012 brought with it a series of spirited celebrations, including Georgian evenings, cultural showcases, and formal gatherings that added grandeur and emotional resonance to the golden milestone. Most recently, the school marked its Diamond Jubilee in 2022 with a year-long celebration packed with academic, co-scholastic, and sporting events. It culminated in a grand function in July 2023—a vibrant tribute to sixty years of excellence, unity, and vision. Alumni from around the world returned to commemorate the school's remarkable journey, honouring its legacy, its evolution, and its unwavering commitment to shaping future leaders.