The Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun recently hosted the Commandant’s Parade, marking the graduation of 372 gentlemen cadets. Among them, 29 hailed from 12 friendly nations, enhancing the academy’s international camaraderie. This Saturday event marked their official commissioning as officers, ready to serve in the armies of their respective countries.
IMA’s International Cadets Shine in Graduation Ceremony
On December 9, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) held the Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Autumn term, a momentous occasion for the institution. A noteworthy 372 Officer Cadets, comprising 153 Regular Course and 136 Technical Graduate Courses, celebrated their successful completion. Among them, 29 Officer Cadets from 12 friendly foreign nations.
It was a significant stride for the Indian armed forces as 343 young officers from the esteemed Indian Military Academy (IMA) were officially commissioned into the mainstream army. The grand ceremony, steeped in tradition and prestige, witnessed these officers taking a solemn oath to serve the nation with courage and integrity. The Passing Out Parade, a symbolic ceremony in the military, was honoured by the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Sri Lanka, General Dr. Shavendra Silva, who took the salute.
The Indian Military Academy (IMA), known for its rigorous training and storied legacy, recently marked a momentous occasion by celebrating the graduation of 29 cadets from friendly foreign nations. Comprehensive measures were implemented within and around the academy premises, ensuring utmost security. The grand parade kicked off at 8 AM at the Drill Square, providing a picturesque setting against the historic Chetwode Building.
Gen Shavendra Silva’s Praise for Graduating Cadets
As the reviewing officer at the passing out parade, Chief of Defence Staff of Sri Lanka, Gen Shavendra Silva, extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduating cadets for their commendable accomplishment in the demanding training regimen. He conveyed his best wishes for their future endeavours.
Gen Silva commended the impeccable parade, noting that it mirrored the cadets’ exceptional training standards. With confidence, he expressed his belief that these gentlemen cadets, now officially graduated, would go on to serve their respective motherlands with unwavering commitment, loyalty, and courage.
The prestigious Sword of Honour and Gold Medal were proudly awarded to Battalion Under Officer Gaurav Rawat. At the same time, the Silver Medal was conferred upon Battalion Under Officer Saurabh Badhani. Additionally, Battalion Under Officer Alok Singh claimed the Bronze Medal, marking an outstanding recognition of their achievements.
A Tapestry of Diversity at the Indian Military Academy
With the Passing Out Parade on Saturday, the Indian Army welcomed 343 new officers. Among the graduating gentlemen cadets, 29 hailed from 12 friendly nations. This international contingent included nine from Bhutan, four each from Sri Lanka and Maldives, three from Mauritius, two from Nepal, and one each from Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
India had a diverse mix, reflecting reach and inclusivity. Uttar Pradesh led the representation with 68 cadets. Following closely were Uttarakhand with 42, Rajasthan with 34, Maharashtra with 28, and Bihar with 27 representatives.
Other states contributing to the course included Haryana (22), Punjab (20), Himachal Pradesh (14), Jammu-Kashmir (10), Kerala (9), West Bengal (9), Madhya Pradesh (7), Jharkhand (5), Odisha (5), Andhra Pradesh (4), Tamil Nadu (4), Delhi (2), Gujarat (2), Chandigarh (2), and states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Telangana with one representative each.
