The prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun witnessed a grand ceremonial Passing Out Parade (POP) on Saturday, marking the culmination of the rigorous training for the Spring Term 2025. A total of 451 Gentlemen Cadets (GCs), including 419 Indian cadets and 32 foreign cadets from friendly countries, proudly marched on the historic drill square, stepping into the ranks of commissioned officers in their respective armies.
Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, graced the event as the Reviewing Officer, symbolising the strong bonds of defence cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. He inspected the parade and presented prestigious awards and medals to the top-performing officer cadets.
Key Honours Presented:
- Sword of Honour: Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra
- Gold Medal: Academy Under Officer Ronit Ranjan Nayak (1st in Order of Merit)
- Silver Medal: Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra (2nd in Order of Merit)
- Bronze Medal: Battalion Under Officer Anurag Verma (3rd in Order of Merit)
- Silver Medal (TGC): Sergeant Akash Bhadouriya (Topper, Technical Graduate Course)
- Silver Medal (TES-45): Wing Cadet Quarter Master Kapil (Topper, Technical Entry Scheme)
- Foreign Cadet Medal: Foreign Officer Cadet Nishan Balami (Nepal) (1st in Order of Merit among foreign trainees)
The Chief of Army Staff Banner for the best performing company was awarded to Keren Company, standing first among the 12 companies for Spring Term 2025.
The IMA, established on 1 October 1932, has trained over 65,000 cadets, including those from 34 friendly foreign countries. Its legacy continues to inspire generations of military leaders with its focus on discipline, honour, and leadership.
The majestic Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Spring Term 2025 was conducted today at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, graced the occasion as the Reviewing Officer.
A total of 451 Officer Cadets marched proudly on the drill square, marking the successful completion of their rigorous pre-commissioning training. Among them were 32 Officer Cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries, including 2 cadets from Sri Lanka, showcasing IMA’s role as a global centre for military excellence.
Lieutenant General Rodrigo commended the Officer Cadets for their impeccable drill, bearing, and discipline during the parade. In his address, he reminded the newly commissioned officers of the three core responsibilities they must uphold throughout their careers — to the Nation, to their Soldiers, and to the Families of Bravehearts.
He also lauded the foreign cadets, referring to them as “brand ambassadors” of the IMA’s values who will carry the institution’s legacy beyond borders.
The event symbolized not only the start of a military journey for many but also the enduring spirit of camaraderie, discipline, and service that defines the Indian Military Academy.
