Military cadets share inspiration; parents adorn shoulders with stars at pipping ceremony
Dehradun, June 13
Following the grand Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy on Saturday, parents of the newly commissioned cadets proudly adorned their shoulders with stars, marking their induction as officers in the Indian Army.
At the IMA, Sword of Honour recipient Lieutenant Vishal Kumar shared his joy and credited his instructors and parents for helping him achieve the milestone. Speaking to ANI, he said, "I owe this to my instructors and my parents, who dedicated so much time to this. They prioritised this goal above other things, and that is how I have achieved this milestone today."
He added, "I attended a military school during my childhood, where the environment and training methods were modelled after the NDA. That inspired me to join the NDA, and today, I have received my commission."
Another cadet, Shanan Dhaka, said she felt a deep sense of pride and responsibility. She added that having a military background, it was not just a career choice for her but a way of life she had witnessed since childhood.
The President of India and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Droupadi Murmu, attended the Passing Out Parade at the IMA in Dehradun on Saturday as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer.
The President reviewed the impressive Passing Out Parade of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course and extended her best wishes to the newly commissioned officers. In her address, the President inspired the graduating cadets to serve the nation with dedication, discipline, patriotism, and an unwavering sense of duty in safeguarding Mother India.
She emphasised that military officers are not only guardians of the nation's borders but also custodians of the trust, aspirations, and honour of 1.4 billion Indians. One of the most significant highlights of this year's Passing Out Parade was the successful commissioning of nine women cadets.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So proud of the women cadets! Nine women commissioned this year—that's a great step forward. Shanan Dhaka's words about it being a 'way of life' really resonate. My cousin is preparing for the SSB interviews and this gives her so much motivation.
President Droupadi Murmu's address was spot on. She rightly said these officers are custodians of our trust and aspirations. But I hope the government also focuses on better infrastructure and living conditions for soldiers in border areas. They sacrifice so much for us—it's the least we can do.
As someone who grew up near an army cantonment in the UK, I've always admired the discipline and pride of Indian military traditions. This ceremony looks absolutely incredible. Respect to all the families and new officers—your commitment is an inspiration worldwide.
My father served in the Army for 25 years, and every time I see these parades, it brings back memories. The moment parents pin those stars is pure emotion—you can see the pride in their eyes. God bless our soldiers and their families. 🙏
Beautiful tradition! I've never seen a ceremony quite like this in Canada. The focus on family involvement and national pride is something special. Lieutenant Vishal Kumar's story is great—his dedication from military school to this moment is inspiring.
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