In a ceremony marked by grandeur and tradition, Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) Shobhit Gupta was awarded the prestigious President’s Gold Medal at the Passing Out Parade of the 146th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) held at the Khetarpal Parade Ground. This honor is bestowed upon the cadet who achieves the highest overall merit, reflecting exceptional performance in all aspects of training.
The NDA, often referred to as the cradle of military leadership, has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the finest officers in the Indian Armed Forces. The 146th course, inducted in June 2021, saw cadets undergo three years of rigorous military training, culminating in this ceremonial passing out event.
BCC Shobhit Gupta’s achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and excellence across a range of disciplines, including academics, physical training, leadership, and tactical exercises. His consistent performance has set a benchmark for his peers and has made him a role model for future NDA cadets.
The Passing Out Parade, reviewed by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Manoj Pande, saw a total of 1,265 cadets participating, with 337 cadets graduating. These graduates included 199 Army Cadets, 38 Naval Cadets, and 100 Air Force Cadets, along with 19 cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries such as Bhutan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and the Maldives. Additionally, 24 female cadets, currently in their third and fourth terms, took part in the parade, highlighting the increasing role of women in the armed forces.
General Pande, in his address, congratulated all the graduating cadets and specifically lauded BCC Shobhit Gupta for his outstanding achievement. He emphasized the importance of jointness in service and the need to stay abreast of technological advancements driving the revolution in military affairs. He also expressed gratitude to the parents of the graduating cadets for their support and encouragement.
The ceremony concluded with a solemn event at the Hut of Remembrance, where General Pande paid homage to the fallen heroes whose sacrifices are commemorated within the walls of this hallowed memorial. Constructed by the cadets of the 10th to 17th courses, the Hut of Remembrance stands as a symbol of bravery, courage, and selfless service, echoing the legacy of the NDA’s illustrious alumni.
BCC Shobhit Gupta’s receipt of the President’s Gold Medal not only honors his individual excellence but also underscores the rigorous training and values imparted by the NDA. As he and his fellow cadets embark on their respective military careers, they carry forward the rich legacy of the National Defence Academy, prepared to serve and protect the nation with distinction.
