New Delhi, 13 December (H.S.): Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the 157th Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun on Saturday, commissioning 525 officer cadets into the Indian Army amid a display of pride, tradition, and military splendor.

Addressing the cadets, General Dwivedi described soldiering as a sacred calling demanding selfless service and sacrifice, praising IMA's legacy of producing visionary leaders. He highlighted modern warfare's complexities, citing Operation SINDOOR for the need to blend diplomacy with decisive action, and urged adaptability, ethical leadership, and mentorship amid rapid Army modernization.

The COAS commended 34 foreign cadets from 14 nations for forging enduring defence ties, thanked instructors, staff, and parents, and invoked Chanakya's wisdom on eternal Dharma over transient life. Awardees included Sword of Honour and Gold Medal winner Academy Cadet Adjutant Nishkal Dwivedi, with others recognizing merit across courses.

The parade concluded with the traditional 'Antim Pag', as new officers marched forth as guardians of India's sovereignty, witnessed by families and dignitaries.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar