A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

Punjab Public School Nabha (PPS Nabha) stands tall as one of the best legacy schools in Punjab, with a rich history of educational excellence, leadership, and values. Established in 1960, this prestigious institution originates from the visionary Sardar Partap Singh Kairon, the then Chief Minister of Punjab. His dream was to create a world-class boarding school rooted in military ethos, discipline, and Indian values, while embracing modern and progressive education.

The school was formally inaugurated in April 1961 by Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India. From the very beginning, PPS Nabha had a strong mission: to prepare young minds to take on leadership roles in diverse fields while staying true to the school motto, “Onward and Upward.”

The Historic Kairon Block – A Symbol of Heritage

The iconic Nabha Secretariat Building, constructed in 1937, was gifted to the school in 1960 by Sardar Partap Singh Kairon. In 1972, it was named Kairon Block in his honor. The building continues to serve as the academic and administrative hub for Classes VIII to XII.

Walking into the Kairon Block is like stepping into the school’s legacy. The block houses historic naval models such as INS Viraat R22, Gabrielle Yacht, INS Chakra Nuclear Submarine, and INS Talwar—each gifted by distinguished alumni who served in the Indian Navy. These symbols of maritime excellence highlight the school’s deep-rooted military ethos, making PPS Nabha one of India's most respected military schools.

Two large aquariums dedicated by the Old Nabhaites Association (ONA) during the school’s Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2015 further enrich the marine touch on campus. These historic and cultural elements ensure that every Nabhaite grows up surrounded by inspiration from those who came before them.

From Sainik School to a Premier Legacy Institution

Initially named Sainik School, PPS Nabha began as a residential boys’ school with 550 hostel seats, catering to the children of veterans, serving defense personnel, and civilians. The Post-war Services Reconstruction Fund and the Punjab Government supported its foundation, which provided land, buildings, and financial aid.

From its early years, PPS Nabha became a member of the Indian Public Schools’ Conference (IPSC), positioning itself among India’s premier schools. Over time, the school expanded significantly, with landmark additions like:

• Staff Colony (1962)
• Swimming Pool (1964)
• Sham Bagh Senior Student Houses (1970)
• School Auditorium (1973)
• School Guest House (1995)
• Residential Blocks (2000, 2003, 2007)
• Multipurpose Sports Complex (2009)
• Ultra-Modern Girls’ Hostel (2013)

Such infrastructure growth has enabled PPS Nabha to become one of the most advanced CBSE schools in Nabha, combining tradition with modernity. Renovation projects such as the MI building and refurbished bridges in the Junior, Middle, and Senior sections showcase the school’s commitment to continuous progress.

Mission and Vision – Onward and Upward

The guiding philosophy of Punjab Public School Nabha is deeply embedded in its mission and vision:

• Mission:
  “Through a unique combination of academics and co-curricular activities, PPS Nabha aims to transform young learners into global citizens and leaders of tomorrow, equipped with vocational skills, values, and character to reach new heights.”
   
• Vision:
  “True to its founding fathers’ dreams and the motto Onward and Upward, PPS Nabha envisions itself as an institution recognized for academic excellence, competitive readiness, and holistic growth in tune with the demands of a globalized world.”

This mission and vision align the school with its founding ideals and prepare it to embrace modern reforms such as NEP 2020 school initiatives.

Headmaster’s Leadership – Dr DC Sharma’s Perspective

Dr DC Sharma, a highly qualified educationist with degrees including M.Sc., M.Phil., Ph.D., B.Ed., and PGDSC, is at the helm of Punjab Public School Nabha today. In his address, Dr Sharma describes his immense pride in leading one of Punjab's top boarding schools, which blends service traditions, Indian ethos, and modern progressive values.

Dr Sharma highlights that PPS Nabha alumni, affectionately called Nabhaites, have made their mark across the globe. Many have risen to senior ranks in the Indian Armed Forces, while others have excelled in diverse fields such as medicine, journalism, engineering, business, and the arts. This reflects the school’s ability to produce versatile and world-class leaders.

As Headmaster, Dr Sharma envisions PPS Nabha as a hub for nurturing competent human capital resources—students who embody knowledge, intellect, values, and life skills. He aims to integrate tradition with technology, creating a future-ready institution aligned with the aspirations of NEP 2020 schools in India.

He emphasizes that education at PPS Nabha is a collaborative effort involving not just teachers and students but also parents, the Board of Governors, and alumni. According to him, this synergy will transform the school from a good institution to a truly great centre of excellence in learning.

Academic Excellence with a Military Ethos

PPS Nabha is widely regarded as one of the top boarding schools in Punjab. It is known for its academic rigor combined with a military-inspired culture of discipline, service, and resilience. The CBSE curriculum is delivered through innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring students are competitive in national and international arenas.

Beyond academics, the school nurtures leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability—vital skills in today’s rapidly changing world. Its structured environment, shaped by discipline and values, helps prepare students for careers and life’s challenges.

The motto “Onward and Upward” serves as a constant reminder for students to strive for excellence, rise above challenges, and aim for higher goals.

A School that Builds Global Citizens

The PPS Nabha experience is not confined to academics or sports; it is a journey of holistic development. Students are encouraged to explore extracurricular activities, from arts and debates to community service, trekking, and leadership camps. These opportunities enable them to emerge as global citizens, rooted in Indian culture but ready to contribute to the world.

The alum network, the Old Nabhaites Association (ONA), is a testament to the school’s impact. With distinguished professionals worldwide, ONA continues to support and inspire current students, keeping PPS's legacy alive.

Conclusion

Over six decades since its establishment, Punjab Public School Nabha continues to embody the vision of Sardar Partap Singh Kairon and the dynamic leadership of its current Headmaster, Dr DC Sharma. With its unwavering commitment to the motto “Onward and Upward,” PPS Nabha has become one of Punjab's most admired legacy schools.

By blending military ethos, CBSE academic rigor, and modern innovation, PPS Nabha ensures that every student emerges as a scholar and a confident, compassionate, and capable leader of tomorrow. For parents seeking the best CBSE schools in Nabha or the top boarding schools in Punjab, PPS Nabha stands as a beacon of excellence—where heritage meets progress, and every learner’s journey is one of growth, service, and leadership.