Chennai, September 4, 2026: The Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, felicitated the parents of Officer Cadets of the Passing Out Course with the prestigious “Gaurav Padak” on Friday, recognising their contribution in supporting their wards’ decision to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army.
Lieutenant General Michael AJ Fernandez, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Commandant of OTA Chennai, addressed the gathering and presented the Gaurav Padak to the proud parents of the graduating Officer Cadets.
The ceremony acknowledged the important role played by families in the journey of young men and women who choose a career in the Armed Forces. The honour symbolises the Army’s gratitude towards parents whose encouragement, values and sacrifices have helped their wards pursue the demanding path of becoming military officers.
The Gaurav Padak is traditionally associated with recognising parents whose sons and daughters dedicate themselves to serving the country through the Indian Army. The medal serves as a reminder that behind the achievement of every Officer Cadet stands a family that has supported them through the challenges of military training and preparation for a life of service.
Addressing the parents, Lt Gen Michael AJ Fernandez highlighted the noble contribution made by their wards in choosing to serve the nation with pride. The occasion also celebrated the collective journey of the cadets and their families as the young trainees prepare to transition from Officer Cadets to commissioned officers.
The Gaurav Padak ceremony is one of the significant events associated with the culmination of training at OTA Chennai. A similar ceremony held at the academy in March 2026 also honoured parents of the Passing Out Course, underscoring the institution’s tradition of recognising the families behind its future Army officers.
For the parents, the presentation marked a deeply proud moment as months of rigorous training undertaken by their wards approached their culmination. The Officer Cadets will soon leave the academy to begin their careers as officers of the Indian Army, carrying with them the responsibility of leading soldiers and serving the nation.
The ceremony reflected OTA Chennai’s emphasis not only on celebrating the achievements of its Officer Cadets but also on acknowledging the families whose encouragement and sacrifices remain an integral part of their journey into military service.
