The Indian Army got a boost on Saturday when 616 young men joined its ranks as officers after they passed out from the portals of Indian Military Academy (IMA) on completion of their rigorous training. The Gentlemen Cadets (GC) of 136 Regular Course, 119 Technical Graduate Course (TGC) and 23 University Entry Scheme (UES) marched with perfect synergy and enthusiasm in the Passing Out Parade (POP) to earn the epaulettes of Indian Army on their olive green uniform. Apart from the Indian GCs, 71 Foreign GCs also passed out from IMA to become officers in the armed forces of their respective countries.
Sounding of bugle from the top of historic Chetwode building amid rising sun marked the arrival of GCs who marched in perfect coordination on the tune of IMA band which produced foot tapping tunes of Col Bogey and Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara. The parade led by Academy Under Officer Ishan Shinghal drew regular applause from the audience for its synergy, enthusiasm and turn-out.
The parade gave ceremonial salute to Brigadier (training), SK Sengar, Officiating Commandant of IMA Major General YS Mahiwal and reviewing officer of the parade, the Chief of Naval staff, Admiral RK Dhowan. Addressing the GCs, Admiral Dhowan said that IMA is the institution which has stood the test of time with its motto 'Valor and Wisdom'. He suggested four Cs — Courage, Commitment, Compassion and Credibility and one I that is Integrity to the newly commissioned officers to excel in life. Admiral Dhowan exhorted the GCs to always have 'Yes I can' motto and remove the word impossible from their dictionary.
The reviewing officer presented the prestigious Sword of Honour to Ishan Shinghal for being adjusted best all round GC. The Gold Medal for the GC standing First in the Overall Order of Merit was presented to Ajay Kumar Pathak. While the Silver Medal for standing second in the Order of Merit was presented to Ashish Kapoor.
The Bronze Medal for standing third was presented to Naveen Janu. The Silver Medal for being best in the order of Merit from Technical Graduate Course was conferred upon Anshumaan Bisht. The silver medal for being best Foreign Gentlemen Cadet (GC) was presented to Ali Shareef of Maldives. The coveted 'Chief of Army Staff Banner' was awarded to Hajipir Company for standing Overall First in the Term. The spectacular POP was witnessed by large number of military and civil dignitaries and proud parents of GCs.