The Covid-19 pandemic has cast its shadow on the grandeur of the passing out parade (PoP) at Indian Military Academy (IMA). For the first time in the history of the famed training institute, the proud parents and close family members of the newly commissioned officers would not have the privilege of witnessing the PoP. The academy would enforce the social distancing norms in the toned down ceremony. The PoP of the summer batch ( Spring term) of the academy is slated to be held on June 13.
The absence of parents and family members this time around would mean that the pipping ceremony, the most eagerly awaited moment for the GCs and their families when the epaulets (stars) of the officer are placed on their shoulders, would lose its charm. The memories of the pipping ceremony always remain firmly etched in the memory of every officer and his loved ones.
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the IMA, Lt Colonel Amit Dagar said that decision has been taken to ensure safety.
He said that other necessary measures would also be taken in the ceremony this time.
On being asked about the Reviewing Officer (RO) for the PoP this year, Lt Col Dagar said that the information would be provided in coming days.
The graduation ceremony -in which the cadets of the Army Cadet College (ACC) wing are awarded degrees- held on Friday at the Khetarpal Auditorium of IMA was also sans parents and spouse. In this ceremony the cadets and the officers were seen wearing masks.