525 Young Officers Commissioned at Indian Military Academy’s 157th Passing Out Parade in Dehradun

In a ceremony brimming with tradition, pride, and military precision, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun held its 157th Passing Out Parade today at the historic Chetwode Drill Square. Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi served as the Reviewing Officer, inspecting the impeccably turned-out cadets and commissioning 525 new officers into the Indian Army, including 34 from 14 friendly foreign nations.

The event, marking the culmination of rigorous training for cadets from the 157th Regular Course, 46th Technical Entry Scheme, 140th Technical Graduate Course, 55th Special Commissioned Officers Course, and Territorial Army Online Entrance Exam 2023 Course, showcased flawless drill movements, seamless coordination, and the indomitable spirit that defines the IMA – often called the ‘Temple of Martial Learning’. As the young officers took their ‘Antim Pag’ (final step) across the sacred parade ground, they stepped forward as guardians of India’s sovereignty, ready to lead with valour and wisdom, the academy’s enduring motto.

General Dwivedi, in his address to the passing-out cadets, described the profession of arms as a “sacred calling” demanding unflinching dedication, selfless service, and, when necessary, the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. He praised the IMA’s storied legacy of forging visionary leaders and fearless officers who have consistently upheld traditions of courage and honour. Highlighting the evolving security landscape – spanning military, technological, and societal domains – the COAS referenced Operation Sindoor to illustrate the need for seamless integration of diplomacy and decisive military action.

“The Indian Army is rapidly modernising through innovation, and you, the new officers, will drive this transformation,” General Dwivedi emphasised. He urged the young leaders to excel in leadership amid uncertainty, where challenges may lack clear solutions, testing their adaptability, judgement, and integrity. Calling on them to lead by example, maintain ethical standards, and serve as mentors exhibiting moral courage, creative thinking, and composure in crises, he inspired them to become role models for their troops.

The Army Chief extended special commendation to the 34 foreign cadets, noting that the bonds forged at the IMA strengthen international defence ties and symbolise enduring friendships. He also acknowledged the instructors and staff for their tireless commitment to moulding officers of character and resilience, and expressed profound gratitude to the proud parents, thanking them on behalf of the nation for entrusting their sons to its defence.

Drawing from ancient wisdom, General Dwivedi invoked Chanakya, reminding the cadets that while material possessions and life are transient, Dharma – righteousness and duty – remains eternal. “Uphold honour, loyalty, and courage in service to the motherland,” he exhorted, urging them to stay purposeful, prepared, and always ahead of emerging threats, serving with unwavering pride and conviction.

In a light-hearted yet motivating moment that went viral on social media, General Dwivedi joined the newly commissioned officers for push-ups on the parade ground, demonstrating his own fitness and earning cheers from the assembled crowd. The gesture underscored the Army’s emphasis on physical excellence and camaraderie.

The parade was attended by proud families, senior military officials, and distinguished guests, who witnessed the traditional flower petal shower from helicopters as the ceremony concluded.

Top honours were bestowed by the Reviewing Officer:

• Sword of Honour and Gold Medal (First in Overall Order of Merit): Academy Cadet Adjutant Nishkal Dwivedi
• Silver Medal (Second in Order of Merit): Battalion Under Officer Badal Yadav
• Bronze Medal (Third in Order of Merit): Senior Under Officer Kamaljeet Singh
• Silver Medal (First in Technical Graduate Course): Officer Cadet Jadhav Sujeet Sampat
• Silver Medal (First in Technical Entry Scheme – 46): Wing Cadet Captain Abhinav Mehrotra
• Silver Medal (Special Commissioned Officer): Officer Cadet Sunil Kumar Chhetri
• Medal (First in Order of Merit – Foreign Cadet): Junior Under Officer Mohammad Safin Ashraf from Bangladesh
• Chief of the Army Staff Banner (Overall Champion Company, Autumn Term 2025): Imphal Company

With this commissioning, the Indian Army gains fresh leadership infused with professionalism and dedication, while the IMA reaffirms its role as a cradle of excellence, having trained over 66,000 officers since 1932. As these young lieutenants embark on their journeys, they carry forward a legacy of service that continues to safeguard India’s future.