By Shishir Prashant PrashantNews
The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun symbolizes the culmination of rigorous training and transformation of a cadet into a dynamic and responsible officer.
The 156th POP was held on 14 Jun 2025 (Saturday) at the historic Chetwode Drill Square in IMA wherein a total of 451 cadets displayed their immaculate turnout marching with precision and elan. The Parade was reviewed by Lt Gen Lasantha Rodrigo the Commander of the Sri Lankan Army.
A total of 451 Officer Cadets including 32 from friendly countries successfully passed out from the portals of IMA.
The Officer Cadets displayed inspiring enthusiasm and zeal, and put up an excellent show, marching with perfection to Military tunes of `Sare Jahan Se Achha’ and ‘Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja’ with pride and élan reflecting in each step. They knew that their parents and loved ones were witnessing each step with great pride and affection.
While addressing the passing out course the Reviewing Officer Lt Gen Rodrigo said “I am deeply honoured and moved to the point of tears to stand before you as the first IMA alumnus to return as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army and review this parade.
The Gen Officer reminded the officer cadets that they now belong to an unbroken chain of patriots and warriors, urging them to wear the uniform not just with pride, but with purpose. Congratulating the award winners, he praised their exceptional effort and encouraged others to keep striving.
The Chief of Sri Lankan Army said the Academy has not only shaped soldiers but future guardians of the nation. As their real journey begins, he urged them to lead with wisdom, fight for what’s right, and carry the hopes of a billion with pride.
The Reviewing Officer presented the following awards:-
The coveted award of the Sword of Honour was presented to Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra.
Gold Medal for the Officer Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit was presented to Academy Under Officer Ronit Ranjan Nayak.
Silver Medal for the Officer Cadet standing Second in the Order of Merit was presented to Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra.
Bronze Medal for the Officer Cadet standing Third in the Order of Merit was presented to Battalion Under Officer Anurag Verma.
Silver Medal for the Officer Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit from Technical Graduate Course was presented to Sergeant Akash Bhadouriya.
Silver Medal for the Officer Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit from Technical Entry Scheme (TES-45) was presented to Wing Cadet Quarter Master Kapil.
Medal for the Officer Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit from Foreign Country was presented to Foreign Officer Cadet Nishan Balami (Nepal).
Chief of Army Staff Banner was awarded to Keren Company for standing Overall First amongst 12 companies for the Spring Term 2025.
The Reviewing Officer, exhorted all to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation. He said, “You are just a step away from the historic and magnificent moment of your commissioning into the most elite forces”.
