Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi etched his name into the proud history of the Indian Military Academy by winning the prestigious Sword of Honour at the 157th Passing Out Parade held at the historic Drill Square in Dehradun on December 13, 2025. The Sword of Honour, regarded as the highest accolade at the Academy, is awarded to the Officer Cadet who best exemplifies overall excellence in leadership, discipline, character and military bearing during training. Lieutenant Dwivedi’s achievement stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment, exceptional professionalism and all-round merit throughout his rigorous training at the IMA.
The grand Passing Out Parade was reviewed by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, who congratulated the newly commissioned officers for successfully completing one of the most demanding military training programmes in the country. Addressing the parade, the COAS described the profession of arms as a sacred calling that demands selfless service, moral courage and, when required, the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. He highlighted the Indian Military Academy’s timeless motto, “Valour and Wisdom,” and reaffirmed its legacy of producing leaders who have consistently upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army.
During his address, General Upendra Dwivedi spoke about the evolving and complex nature of modern warfare, which now spans military, technological and societal domains. Referring to Operation SINDOOR, he emphasised that contemporary conflicts demand seamless coordination between diplomatic engagement and decisive military action.
He reminded the young officers that the challenges ahead may not always present clear solutions and will test their adaptability, judgement and integrity. The COAS urged them to lead by example, uphold ethical conduct and serve as mentors and role models for their troops, displaying composure and clarity even in moments of crisis.
Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi’s remarkable performance was further underscored by the fact that he also secured the Gold Medal, being first in the overall Order of Merit of the course. His dual achievement of winning both the Sword of Honour and the Gold Medal places him among an elite group of officers whose training careers at the Academy have been marked by consistent excellence. Such accomplishments reflect not only individual brilliance but also the high standards of leadership and training imparted at the Indian Military Academy.
The Passing Out Parade marked the commissioning of 525 Officer Cadets from various courses, including the 157th Regular Course, 46th Technical Entry Scheme Course, 140th Technical Graduate Course, 55th Special Commissioned Officers Course and the Territorial Army Online Entrance Exam 2023 Course.
The parade also witnessed the successful completion of training by 34 Officer Cadets from 14 friendly foreign nations, symbolising the enduring defence partnerships and bonds of friendship fostered at the Academy. The COAS lauded these international cadets, noting that the relationships forged at IMA strengthen military cooperation and mutual understanding between nations.
The ceremony was attended by proud parents, family members, senior Army officers and distinguished guests, all of whom witnessed the emotional culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. The parade concluded with the traditional ‘Antim Pag’, the final step that signifies the transition of Officer Cadets into commissioned officers of the Indian Army.
As Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi and his coursemates marched forward, they carried with them the honour, responsibility and timeless values of the Indian Military Academy, ready to serve the nation with courage, integrity and unwavering dedication.
