Pune: The National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla marked a historic milestone on Saturday with its 150th Passing Out Parade, as 353 cadets completed three years of rigorous military training and prepared to begin their next phase of service to the nation.
The ceremonial parade was reviewed by Chief of Army Staff Upendra Dwivedi at the iconic Khetarpal Parade Ground, where discipline, precision, and tradition were on full display.
A total of 1,250 cadets marched in synchronised formation to the tune of the martial classic “Kadam Kadam Badaye Ja”, led by Cadet Mayank Chaudhary. The parade showcased the hallmark military precision for which the academy is known.
Aerial displays added grandeur to the ceremony, with Chetak helicopters, a Super Dimona aircraft, and Sukhoi fighter jets executing a flypast over the parade ground, saluting the graduating cadets.
Out of the 353 passing-out cadets, 292 will join the Indian Army, 43 the Indian Navy, and 81 the Indian Air Force for further specialised training. The cohort also included 24 foreign cadets from 12 friendly countries, highlighting the NDA’s growing international engagement.
The event was attended by senior military leadership, including Lieutenant General Sandeep Jain of the Southern Command, Vice Admiral Anil Jaggi, Commandant of the NDA, and Air Vice Marshal Rajesh Verma, Deputy Commandant, along with proud families of the cadets.
Addressing the parade, General Upendra Dwivedi shared a personal connection with the academy, recalling his own training days at NDA more than four decades ago.
“Being present today as the Chief Guest at the same venue was a matter of immense pride for me,” he said, reflecting on his journey from cadet to Army Chief.
He also highlighted the participation of foreign cadets, noting that their presence would strengthen India’s diplomatic and defence ties with partner nations. Reaffirming the armed forces’ stance, he said the Indian Army remains committed to responding firmly to any external aggression.
The Army Chief also praised the increasing role of women cadets in the armed forces, stating that they are now performing on par with their male counterparts and taking on leadership responsibilities across domains.
The 150th Passing Out Parade thus stood not only as a ceremonial milestone but also as a reflection of the evolving strength, diversity, and global reach of India’s armed forces.
