President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. A total of 481 Indian and 34 foreign cadets were commissioned as military officers, while 9 women cadets created history.
Military Officers Are Guardians of the Nation’s Trust: President
Dehradun, June 13, 2026
In a moment of pride and glory for the nation, the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course was held at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, in the gracious presence of the President of India and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Droupadi Murmu. The President attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer and reviewed the impressive parade of newly trained cadets.
The grand event, held in front of the iconic Chetwode Building, showcased the discipline, courage, leadership, and dedication that define the future officers of the Indian Army. With the completion of their rigorous military training, 481 Indian Cadets and 34 Foreign Cadets from 16 friendly nations were commissioned as military officers, ready to serve their respective countries with honor and commitment.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, President Murmu emphasized that military officers are not only protectors of the nation’s borders but also custodians of the trust, aspirations, and dignity of over 1.4 billion Indians. She urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, patriotism, and professional excellence throughout their careers.
The President noted that an officer’s responsibility extends beyond operational duties and includes inspiring, guiding, and leading soldiers under their command. She encouraged the officers to lead from the front and uphold the rich traditions and values of the Indian Army.
Historic Milestone in Women Empowerment
One of the most significant highlights of this year’s Passing Out Parade was the successful commissioning of nine women cadets, marking another historic milestone in the journey of gender inclusion and women empowerment in the armed forces.
President Murmu lauded the achievement and stated that women are making remarkable contributions across all sectors and that their growing participation in the armed forces reflects the emergence of a stronger, more inclusive, and empowered India.
Parade Reflects India’s Growing Global Defence Partnerships
The participation of 34 foreign cadets from 16 friendly countries added an international dimension to the ceremony. The President described it as a reflection of India’s expanding defence cooperation, strategic partnerships, and enduring friendships with nations around the world.
She noted that the Indian Military Academy has earned global recognition as a premier institution for military training and continues to strengthen bonds of trust and cooperation among partner nations through the training of foreign cadets.
Highlighting the rapidly evolving global security landscape, President Murmu stressed the importance of innovation, modernization, technological adaptability, and continuous learning. She observed that future military leaders must be prepared to face emerging challenges, including technological warfare, cyber threats, and complex security situations.
The President urged the newly commissioned officers to remain committed to professional excellence, uphold high ethical standards, and maintain a balance between operational effectiveness and the welfare of the soldiers under their command.
The parade was marked by precision marching, military discipline, and an atmosphere of patriotism and pride. For the families of the graduating cadets, the occasion was both emotional and memorable as they witnessed their sons and daughters embark on a distinguished journey of service to the nation.
The newly commissioned officers formally joined the ranks of the armed forces, pledging their commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty, integrity, and security of their respective nations.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The ceremony was attended by Governor of Uttarakhand Lieutenant General (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Commandant of the Indian Military Academy Lieutenant General Nagendra Singh, senior military officials, civil administration officers, distinguished guests, and family members of the graduating cadets.
Concluding the event, President Murmu extended her best wishes to all the newly commissioned officers and expressed confidence that they would uphold the proud legacy of the armed forces and make significant contributions toward protecting national security, honor, and unity while bringing greater glory to their countries.
