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Key Points

The Officers Training Academy in Chennai witnessed a historic passing out parade with 155 cadets joining the Indian Army. Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal made history as the first woman officer from her family's fifth-generation military legacy. She topped her batch and received the President's Gold Medal for outstanding performance. Her commissioning represents both continuity of tradition and breaking new ground for women in the armed forces.

Key Points: Lt Parul Dhadwal Fifth Generation Woman Officer Indian Army

  • Lt Parul Dhadwal received President's Gold Medal as top cadet
  • Commissioned into Army Ordnance Corps from Punjab's Hoshiarpur
  • Family military service spans from British era to present
  • 155 cadets including 25 women commissioned in Chennai parade
2 min read

Fifth-generation woman officer commissioned into Indian Army at passing out parade in Chennai

Lt Parul Dhadwal becomes first woman officer in her family's fifth-generation military legacy, topping her batch at OTA Chennai passing out parade.

"For Lt Parul Dhadwal and her family, the moment symbolised both continuity of tradition and the breaking of new ground - Article"

New Delhi, Sep 6

The Parameswaran Drill Square of Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, witnessed a proud moment on Saturday as 155 Officer Cadets, including 25 women, were commissioned into the Indian Army during a spectacular Passing Out Parade.

Additionally, nine foreign officer cadets and 12 foreign officer cadets (women) from nine friendly foreign countries successfully completed their training, fostering bonds of camaraderie and cooperation across international borders.

The event also made history with the commissioning of Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal, the first woman officer from her illustrious military family’s fifth generation, into the Army Ordnance Corps.

A total of 130 male cadets and 25 women cadets completed their rigorous training, embodying the Army’s values of duty, courage, and sacrifice.

The immaculate parade, reviewed by Air Force Chief Amar Preet Singh, showcased precision and discipline.

He presented the Sword of Honour and Silver Medal to ACA Raj Biswas, the OTA Gold Medal to AUO Parul Dhadwal, and the Bronze Medal to BUO Pranjal Dixit.

Lt Parul Dhadwal’s commissioning was the day’s highlight. Standing first in the order of merit, she received the President’s Gold Medal, underlining her outstanding dedication and academic excellence. Hailing from Janauri village in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district, she represents a rare fifth-generation military legacy.

Her great-great-grandfather, Subedar Harnam Singh, served with 74 Punjabis between 1896 and 1924. Her great-grandfather, Major L.S. Dhadwal, served with 3 JAT, while Colonel Daljit Singh Dhadwal (7 JAK RIF) and Brigadier Jagat Jamwal (3 KUMAON) carried the torch forward.

Today, her father, Major General K.S. Dhadwal and brother Captain Dhananjay Dhadwal (20 SIKH) continue to serve, making it a rare instance of three serving officers in one family.

The parade concluded with the solemn Pipping Ceremony, where cadets adorned their new ranks and pledged allegiance to the Constitution of India.

As the young officers marched out of OTA Chennai, they embraced the academy’s motto—'Serve with Honour’.

For Lt Parul Dhadwal and her family, the moment symbolised both continuity of tradition and the breaking of new ground with the entry of its first woman officer in olive greens.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Heartwarming to see such military traditions continuing. Her family's service from British India era to modern times shows true dedication to the nation. Jai Hind!
A
Aditya G
While this is a proud moment, I hope the Army provides equal opportunities and postings for women officers. Breaking barriers shouldn't stop at commissioning.
S
Sarah B
Amazing to see international cadets training alongside Indian officers! This kind of cooperation builds strong diplomatic relationships for the future.
V
Vikram M
Punjab has always given brave soldiers to our nation. Another proud moment for our state! Lieutenant Parul is setting an example for young girls in rural areas too.
M
Michael C
The discipline and precision of these passing out parades always gives me goosebumps. These young officers are the future guardians of our nation's security.
N
Nisha Z
Three serving officers from one family! That's incredible dedication. Wishing Lieutenant Parul all the success in her new role. The Army Ordnance Corps is lucky to have her.

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