By Doon Mozaic News | Dehradun, June 8, 2025
A proud and emotional chapter was added to the history of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun as 419 Gentlemen Cadets passed out on Saturday to join the Indian Army as commissioned officers. Alongside them, 32 cadets from 9 friendly foreign countries also graduated, ready to serve in their respective armed forces.
Pride on Parade: IMA’s 156th Passing Out Parade
At precisely 6:38 AM, the grand parade began with the Markers Call, followed by the synchronized steps of cadets marching onto the Drill Square. The moment was made even more historic with Lieutenant General BKGML Liyanage Rodrigo, the Chief of the Sri Lankan Army and an alumnus of IMA (1990 batch), presiding as the Reviewing Officer.
In a deeply emotional address, General Rodrigo recalled his own journey from a simple haircut in 1990 to leading his nation’s army. He reminded the cadets that this uniform is not just a rank—it is a way of life earned through daily conduct and selfless service.
Top Honours at the Parade
The best-performing cadets were honored for their excellence and commitment:
- Sword of Honour & Silver Medal – Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra
- Gold Medal (First in Merit) – Academy Under Officer Ronit Ranjan Nayak
- Bronze Medal (Third in Merit) – Battalion Under Officer Anurag Verma
- TES Silver Medal – Wing Cadet Quartermaster Kapil
- Technical Graduate Course Silver Medal – Sergeant Aakash Bhadauria
- Best Foreign Cadet – Officer Cadet Nishan Balami (Nepal)
- Chief of Army Staff Banner – Keren Company (for best overall performance among 12 companies in Spring Term 2025)
A Parade of Emotions and Brotherhood
Lieutenant General Rodrigo praised IMA as not just a training institution, but as the cradle of future defenders of nations. “Foreign cadets who graduate from here become global ambassadors of IMA’s values,” he stated.
He concluded his address with legendary Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw’s words:
“Be honest, be brave, be true.”
He urged the young officers to wear the uniform with pride and purpose, and to always uphold the military brotherhood that now binds them for life.
A Day to Remember for Generations
The 156th Passing Out Parade saw the graduation of 451 officer cadets from the Regular Course, Technical Entry Scheme, Technical Graduate Course, and Special Commissioned Officers, including the international cadets.
The atmosphere was filled with pride and emotion—families celebrated with tears of joy, and the Drill Square echoed with discipline and glory. In one moving moment, a younger brother lifted the newly commissioned officer onto his shoulders in celebration—a photograph that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.
More Than a Uniform—A Commitment for Life
IMA POP 2025 was not just a parade—it was a ceremony of transformation. These young cadets are now commissioned officers, guardians of the nation, and symbols of leadership and sacrifice.
Their journey from cadets to officers reminds us all that patriotism is not just a feeling—it is a lifelong promise. This day will forever be etched in the golden history of IMA.
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