Gaya, September 5, 2026: The Officers Training Academy (OTA), Gaya, witnessed a proud and memorable military ceremony on Saturday as Officer Cadets of the Summer Term 2026 participated in their Passing Out Parade, marking the culmination of months of rigorous training, discipline and perseverance.
Officer Cadets of SSC (Tech) Men-65 and SSC (Tech) Women-36 marched with precision at the academy before crossing the legendary “Antim Pag” — the final step that symbolises their transition from Officer Cadets to commissioned officers of the Indian Army.
For the young officers, crossing the Antim Pag also marked their “Pehla Kadam” into a life of commissioned service, leadership and responsibility in the Indian Army.
The magnificent Passing Out Parade showcased immaculate drill, military bearing and the high standards of training imparted at OTA Gaya. The ceremony celebrated the transformation of the cadets into military leaders prepared to serve the nation with honour, courage and commitment.
The Reviewing Officer inspected the parade and addressed the newly commissioned officers, exhorting them to uphold the values, traditions and ethos of the Indian Army throughout their military careers. The Reviewing Officer also congratulated the parents and families of the officers, acknowledging their contribution and support during the demanding journey of training.
Outstanding Officer Cadets Honoured
Academy Under Officer P Shashi Kumar emerged as the standout performer of the Summer Term 2026, receiving both the prestigious Sword of Honour and the Gold Medal for his exceptional overall performance during training.
Battalion Under Officer Deepak Singh Rawat was awarded the Silver Medal, while Academy Cadet Adjutant Navneet Singh received the Bronze Medal.
Kalidhar Company was awarded the coveted Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Banner, recognising its outstanding overall performance during the term.
Honours and Awards:
• Sword of Honour — AUO P Shashi Kumar
• Gold Medal — AUO P Shashi Kumar
• Silver Medal — BUO Deepak Singh Rawat
• Bronze Medal — ACA Navneet Singh
• COAS Banner — Kalidhar Company
The Passing Out Parade represents one of the most significant moments in the life of an Officer Cadet. The ceremonial crossing of the Antim Pag brings their academy journey to an end and opens a new chapter as commissioned officers entrusted with the responsibility of leading soldiers of the Indian Army.
For the proud families witnessing the ceremony, the occasion marked the culmination of years of aspiration, sacrifice and hard work. As the newly commissioned officers took their first steps beyond the academy, they embarked on careers dedicated to leadership, duty and service to the nation.
