Dehradun, June 13: President of India Droupadi Murmu today reviewed the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. The grand ceremony marked the successful completion of training by a new batch of officer cadets who are now set to join the Indian Army and serve the nation.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, President Murmu congratulated them on completing one of the most demanding and rigorous military training programmes in the country. She said that the training received at the Indian Military Academy had equipped them with the qualities of leadership, discipline, courage and commitment that are essential for military service.
The President stated that the officer cadets were stepping into a profession that demands the highest standards of dedication and sacrifice. She expressed confidence that the values instilled during their training would guide them throughout their careers and help them meet every challenge with determination and wisdom.
A significant highlight of this year’s passing out parade was the participation of nine women cadets. President Murmu described their presence as a watershed moment in the history of the Indian Military Academy. She said that the inclusion of women in greater numbers reflects India’s commitment to women-led development and gender equality.
“The presence of women cadets in the Academy is not only a milestone for the defence forces but also a symbol of the changing aspirations and capabilities of Indian women,” she said. The President expressed confidence that many more women would join the Academy in the coming years and contribute significantly to the nation’s security and development.
The President also extended her congratulations to the cadets from friendly foreign countries who completed their training at IMA. She appreciated their dedication and hard work and expressed hope that they would bring distinction to their respective armed forces and nations through their service.
Highlighting the importance of international military cooperation, President Murmu said that the presence of foreign cadets at the Indian Military Academy reflects India’s commitment to fostering friendship, cooperation and peaceful relations with countries across the world. She noted that training together helps build mutual trust, professional understanding and lasting bonds among future military leaders, thereby strengthening defence cooperation between nations.
The President emphasized that the newly commissioned officers would carry the responsibility of protecting the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the nation. She reminded them that they bear the trust and aspirations of more than 140 crore Indians and that service to the nation must always remain their highest duty.
She further observed that the global security environment is evolving rapidly, with emerging challenges ranging from te
chnological disruptions to new forms of warfare. In such a scenario, she said, the Indian Army must remain adaptive, innovative and future-ready. She urged the young officers to embrace continuous learning and stay updated with modern technologies and changing battlefield requirements.
Calling upon the officers to become ethical leaders and courageous decision-makers, President Murmu said that military leadership goes beyond commanding troops. It requires integrity, compassion and the ability to inspire confidence among soldiers. She encouraged them to cultivate these qualities throughout their careers.
The President stressed that the true strength of the Indian Army lies in its soldiers and the trust they place in their leaders. As officers, she said, the cadets would be responsible for leading, guiding and caring for their troops. They must lead by example, foster teamwork and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.
She advised the young officers to balance operational effectiveness with the welfare of their soldiers, noting that such an approach strengthens morale and enhances combat readiness. By earning the respect and trust of their troops, they would be able to build strong and effective military units capable of meeting any challenge.
President Murmu also paid tribute to the rich traditions and legacy of the Indian Armed Forces. She urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold these traditions with pride and dedication while contributing to the continued excellence of the Army.
The Passing Out Parade concluded with the cadets marching with precision and pride, marking the culmination of months of intense training and preparation. The ceremony reflected the discipline, professionalism and commitment that define the Indian Military Academy, one of the country’s premier institutions for military leadership.
The event was attended by senior military officials, dignitaries, family members of the cadets and other distinguished guests, who witnessed the proud moment as the officer cadets took their first step into a life dedicated to serving the nation. The ceremony not only celebrated individual achievement but also reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to excellence, service and national security.
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