COAS General Upendra Dwivedi revisits alma mater 'Charlie Squadron' ahead of historic 150th NDA Parade
Pune, May 29
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited his alma mater, Charlie Squadron, on Friday ahead of the historic 150th NDA Passing Out Parade.
The COAS graduated from the institution as part of the 65th Course.
The journey of the Chief of the Army Staff, from the corridors of Charlie Squadron to the highest office in the Indian Army, exemplifies dedication, exemplary leadership, and steadfast service to the nation.
Once a young cadet who aimed to serve the country, General Dwivedi returned to his alma mater bearing the responsibility of leading the Army.
The homecoming represents more than a ceremonial visit; it serves as a testament to the fact that distinguished careers often originate in familiar surroundings, inspiring future generations of leaders to pursue excellence and service in the footsteps of those who came before them.
Meanwhile, the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 150th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) will be held on May 30, 2026, at the tri-services academy campus at Khadakwasla in Pune, marking the commissioning of 355 cadets into the Indian Armed Forces.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, will review the parade as the Reviewing Officer at the Khetarpal Parade Ground in the NDA.
Earlier, a grand Passing Out Parade (POP) was conducted at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, on May 28, 2026.
According to the Ministry of Defence, a total of 311 trainees, including 66 women trainees, passed out with distinction, marking the culmination of their ab initio military training. The passing out cohort included six trainees from three foreign countries, like Seychelles, Tanzania, and Vietnam, two of whom were women trainees from Seychelles.
The Parade was reviewed by VAdm Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command. VAdm Manish Chadha, Commandant INA, conducted the Reviewing Officer during the Ceremonial Parade. The parade was witnessed by senior military officers, distinguished guests, foreign Military Attaches and proud parents of passing out trainees.
The National Defence Academy, a premier global military training hub, provides rigorous military, academic, and character-building instruction to prepare young cadets for leadership positions in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Outstanding tradition. My dad was in the NDA 67th course, and he tells me how a visit from a COAS to the old squadron makes every cadet stand taller. It's not just a parade—it's history in the making.
Great article but I hope the media also focuses on the 66 women trainees passing out from INA. That's real progress. Still many more steps needed for gender parity in our Armed Forces. Respect to all cadets though 🙌
Charlie Squadron! Legendary. General Dwivedi visited my cousin's squadron back in the day and they were buzzing for weeks. It makes you believe that if you work hard, even a regular cadet can one day lead the entire Army. Jai Hind! 🫡
I'm a former serviceman from Australia. This kind of reverence for one's alma mater is rare in many militaries. India's NDA is a true institution. The fact that they host cadets from Seychelles, Tanzania and Vietnam speaks volumes about your nation's soft power.
As an alumnus of NDA, I can tell you that the chants of 'Charlie Squadron' never leave you. General Dwivedi's visit is a beautiful full-circle moment. The 150th parade will be one for the history books. Hope the weather at Khadakwasla stays decent! 😄
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