In a spectacular display of military tradition and excellence, General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), graced the Passing Out Parade of the 146th Course at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, Pune.
The grand ceremonial event, a hallmark of the academy’s legacy, witnessed the participation of 1265 cadets, including 24 female cadets, who took their final step towards commissioning into the Indian Armed Forces.
The passing out course comprised 337 cadets, symbolizing the culmination of rigorous training and academic pursuits at one of the world’s premier military academies.
Among them were 199 Army Cadets, 38 Naval Cadets, and 100 Air Force Cadets, representing the diverse branches of the Indian Armed Forces. Notably, the cohort also included 19 cadets from friendly foreign countries, including Afghanistan, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tajikistan, reaffirming NDA’s role as a beacon of international cooperation and camaraderie.
As the cadets marched in unison on the parade ground, showcasing impeccable drill and discipline, the atmosphere was charged with pride and anticipation. Battalion Cadet Captain Shobhit Gupta emerged as a shining beacon of excellence, clinching the prestigious President’s Gold Medal for standing first in the Overall Order of Merit.
His exemplary performance and leadership qualities epitomize the ethos of dedication, determination, and excellence instilled at NDA.
The Passing Out Parade, steeped in tradition and symbolism, serves as a poignant reminder of the cadets’ journey from raw recruits to future leaders of the Indian Armed Forces.
It marks the culmination of years of rigorous training, academic rigour, and character-building exercises, preparing them to shoulder the responsibilities of defending the nation’s sovereignty and safeguarding its interests.
General Manoj Pande, in his address to the graduating cadets, lauded their commitment, resilience, and spirit of selfless service.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the core values of integrity, honor, and duty, urging them to strive for excellence in every endeavor and to lead by example in the service of the nation.
The COAS also commended the faculty and staff of NDA for their dedication and mentorship in shaping the future leaders of the armed forces. He highlighted the academy’s pivotal role in nurturing talent, fostering camaraderie, and instilling a sense of pride and professionalism among its cadets.
As the cadets bid farewell to their alma mater and embark on their journey to assume roles of responsibility and leadership, they carry with them the values, ethos, and traditions imbibed at NDA.
Their commissioning into the armed forces marks not just the beginning of a career but a solemn pledge to uphold the honor, integrity, and valor of the Indian Armed Forces, safeguarding the nation’s security and prosperity with unwavering commitment and dedication.
