
Pune: The National Defence Academy (NDA), known as the 'Cradle of Military Leadership,' held the Passing Out Parade for its 147th Course at the Khetarpal Parade Ground, Khadakwasla.
The grand ceremonial event marked the culmination of three years of rigorous training for the cadets, inducted in 2021. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, PVSM, AVSM, Chief of the Air Staff, reviewed the parade, which was a moment of immense pride for the academy, the cadets, and their families.
Participation and Highlights
A total of 1,265 cadets participated in the parade, including 357 cadets from the passing out course.
This batch comprised 215 Army Cadets, 38 Naval Cadets, and 104 Air Force Cadets, along with 19 cadets from friendly foreign nations such as Bhutan, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.
Additionally, a contingent of 47 female cadets currently in their third, fourth, and fifth terms joined the parade, reflecting the academy’s commitment to inclusivity and progress.
Awards and Recognition
The ceremony celebrated exceptional achievements:
Cadet Ankit received the President's Gold Medal for securing first place in the Overall Order of Merit.
Cadet Yuvraj Singh Chauhan was awarded the President's Silver Medal for second place.
Cadet Jodha Thongiaomayum earned the President's Bronze Medal for third place.
The Golf Squadron was honored with the prestigious 'Chiefs of Staff Banner' as the Champion Squadron.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh extended his congratulations to the graduating cadets, medal winners, and the champion squadron. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parents of the passing-out cadets for their trust and commitment to the Armed Forces.
Emphasizing the importance of technological advancements in modern military affairs, he urged the cadets to embrace the spirit of jointness as they progress in their careers.
The cadets will now move on to their respective Pre-Commissioning Training Academies, ready to contribute to the defense of the nation with dedication and honor.