In an extraordinary tale of friendship and ambition, six young men from Manipur—who met as classmates in Class 6 at Sainik School Imphal in 2013—have accomplished their long-cherished goal of becoming officers in the Indian Army. Lieutenants Thokchom Shiggarth, M Denish Singh, Naoton Maetei, Naoba, Meghnat Soibam, and Ronendro Angom were recently commissioned at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun.
A Friendship Forged in Purpose
Their journey began over a decade ago when they enrolled in Sainik School Imphal, a premier institution aimed at grooming students for careers in the armed forces. United by a shared vision of serving the nation, the boys developed a deep camaraderie that strengthened through the years of rigorous academic and physical training.
After clearing the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) examination in 2021, they trained at the NDA for three years before advancing to the Indian Military Academy, where they underwent intensive military preparation.
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Rising Against the Odds
All six officers come from modest backgrounds, with families engaged in farming, small-scale businesses, or traditional vocations. Their success is a testament to their discipline, perseverance, and family support. For many, they are the first in their families to don the Army uniform.
Lt. Ronendro Angom reflected, “We’ve been inseparable since Class 6. Our shared dream kept us going through every challenge. Becoming officers together is a moment of pride—not just for us, but for all of Manipur.”
A Beacon of Hope for Manipur
Their achievement resonates even more deeply given the recent ethnic and civil strife in Manipur. Amid uncertainty and unrest, these young officers symbolize hope, unity, and the power of dedication.
“We want the youth of Manipur to know that no dream is too big,” said Lt. M Denish Singh. “With hard work and the right guidance, anything is possible.”
New Roles, Unbreakable Bond
Though the six friends will now be posted across different parts of India, their bond remains unshaken. They continue to inspire each other as they embark on their respective journeys as Army officers.
Their commissioning ceremony at the IMA’s Khetarpal Auditorium was attended by proud families, senior military officials, and dignitaries, who celebrated not just their personal triumph but the rare unity of spirit they represent.
As they begin their service to the nation, these six officers from Manipur stand as symbols of courage, friendship, and unwavering purpose—proving that with unity and determination, even childhood dreams can take flight.
