Dehradun: A historic milestone was achieved on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. For the first time, nine women cadets trained at the academy were commissioned as officers and became part of the Indian Army. In the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, a total of 515 cadets crossed the final step and pledged themselves to the service of the nation.
Women Cadets Commissioned from IMA for the First Time
This marks the first occasion in the history of IMA that women cadets have been granted commissions after completing their training. Marching with discipline, confidence, and determination, the nine newly commissioned women officers began a new chapter in their military careers.
President Murmu Reviewed the Parade
The Passing Out Parade commenced at 6:40 a.m., with President Droupadi Murmu attending as the Chief Guest and taking the salute. The ceremony was also attended by Governor Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, senior army officials, and administrative dignitaries.
In her address, President Murmu stated that the graduation of women officers from IMA for the first time symbolizes the evolving mindset and increasing participation of women in India’s armed forces. She described it as a proud moment for the nation.
Cadets from 16 Friendly Nations Also Commissioned
A total of 515 cadets participated in this year’s Passing Out Parade, including:
- 481 Indian cadets (including 9 women cadets)
- 34 cadets from 16 friendly countries
All successfully completed their training and were commissioned as officers in their respective armed forces.
Stars Adorned During the Pipping Ceremony
Following the parade, the Pipping Ceremony was held, during which the newly commissioned officers received their ranks on their shoulders. Family members looked on with pride and emotion, while the entire campus resonated with a strong sense of patriotism.
President’s Two-Day Visit to Uttarakhand
President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Dehradun a day earlier. She was welcomed at Jolly Grant Airport by Governor Gurmit Singh, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Cabinet Minister Madan Kaushik, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, and DGP Deepam Seth. She later met various dignitaries at the Presidential Retreat.
A New Chapter in Military History
This is the second time that a woman President of India has reviewed the IMA Passing Out Parade. Earlier, former President Pratibha Patil had attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest.
However, the commissioning of nine women officers from IMA for the first time stands as a landmark achievement in the history of the Indian Army and the nation’s military tradition. It reflects the growing role of women in the armed forces and presents a picture of a changing and progressive India.
