Indian Military Academy Passing Out Parade - Spring Term 2026

"The thunder of marching boots, the pride of parents, the fluttering of the Tricolour, and the dreams of hundreds of young cadets came together on one unforgettable morning at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun."

A Spectacle of Honour, Courage and Tradition

The Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, was a proud and memorable occasion that celebrated discipline, dedication, and the spirit of serving the nation. Held at the iconic Drill Square, the parade marked the successful completion of intensive military training for the Gentlemen and Lady Cadets who are now ready to begin their journey as commissioned officers in the Indian Army.

The ceremony became even more special with the presence of the Hon'ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, who reviewed the parade and inspired the future officers with her presence.

As military bands played patriotic tunes and the cadets marched with precision and confidence, the atmosphere was filled with pride and emotion. The event beautifully showcased the values that the Indian Military Academy stands for—courage, leadership, discipline, and its motto, "Veerta Aur Vivek" (Valour and Wisdom).

The Legacy of the Indian Military Academy

Before the parade commenced, spectators witnessed the grandeur of the iconic IMA campus and its historic Chetwode Building.

At the entrance stands the distinguished IMA Crest, symbolising the essence of military leadership. The crest features crossed swords representing the profession of arms, a flaming torch signifying knowledge, and the Ashoka Chakra symbolising righteousness and duty. Beneath it is inscribed the Academy's motto:

"Veerta Aur Vivek" – Valour and Wisdom

The Academy colours Steel Grey and Blood Red represent resilience, strength, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to duty.

For decades, IMA has produced some of India's finest military leaders who have defended the nation's sovereignty across mountains, deserts, jungles, and battlefields around the world.

President Droupadi Murmu Reviews the Parade

One of the most significant moments of the ceremony was the arrival of the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who reviewed the parade and inspected the contingents.

As the Reviewing Officer moved across the Drill Square, accompanied by senior military leadership, the cadets displayed exceptional discipline, bearing, and precision.

The immaculate turnout and synchronised movements showcased the transformation of young civilians into confident military leaders ready to shoulder the responsibility of national security.

The Academy Adjutant: A Symbol of Authority

Adding grandeur to the ceremony was the arrival of the Academy Adjutant, Lieutenant Colonel Raghav Swaroop Gupta, mounted on his grey charger, Zorawar.

An alumnus of both the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun, and the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, Lt Col Gupta was commissioned into the Garhwal Rifles in June 2011 and was awarded the President's Silver Medal at IMA.

His distinguished career includes:

• Best Student in the Young Officers Course
• Scudder Medal recipient at Defence Services Staff College, Wellington
• Instructor with the Indian Military Training Team in Bhutan
• Leader of the Best Marching Contingent at the Army Day Parade 2013
• Guinness World Record participant in the world's highest Frozen Lake Marathon
• Participant in the prestigious Battalion Tactical Course in Singapore
• Staff Officer in operational deployments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)

Since assuming the appointment of Adjutant at IMA on 15 February 2025, Lt Col Gupta has become a symbol of discipline and military excellence for the cadets under training.

A Parade That Reflects the Strength of the Nation

As the cadets marched to inspiring tunes such as Vijay Bharat and Sare Jahan Se Achha, the atmosphere was filled with patriotism.

The synchronised footsteps, upright bearing, and commanding presence of the cadets conveyed a powerful message:

India's future remains secure in the hands of these young leaders.

The parade also paid tribute to generations of IMA alumni who have served with distinction in every conflict since Independence. From icy Himalayan heights and snowstorms to scorching deserts and challenging operational environments, IMA graduates have consistently upheld the nation's honour.

The Nishan Ceremony: A Tribute to Tradition

One of the most emotional moments of the Passing Out Parade was the march of the Nishan Troop carrying the colours of the Indian Military Academy.

As the Nishan approached the spectators, everyone rose in respect. For those in uniform, a salute was rendered.

The Nishan symbolises the academy's glorious heritage, sacrifice, and military traditions. Being selected to carry the colours is considered a matter of immense pride and honour for any Officer Cadet.

Parade Leadership and Distinguished Cadets

The parade was led by some of the finest cadets of the Spring Term.

Key Parade Appointments

• Academy Under Officer Prince Raj led the parade.
• Battalion Under Officer Sahil commanded the Battalion Appointments Contingent.
• Senior Under Officer Anurag Chauhan led the Champion Company of the previous term.
• Senior Under Officers Shivansh, Sanjay Singh, Lakshya Thakur, Akshit Katoch, Amandeep Singh, and Tejas Bhatt led various contingents.
• Senior Under Officer Ayush Dubey led the Nishan Troop.
• Academy Cadet Adjutant Vishal Kumar brought up the rear of the parade.

Each contingent reflected months of relentless training, discipline, and dedication.

Award Winners of Spring Term 2026

The Passing Out Parade also recognised exceptional cadets for their outstanding performance in academics, military training, sports, and leadership.

Major Award Winners

Champion Company

The prestigious Chief of Army Staff Banner for Spring Term 2026 was awarded to Imphal Company, recognising it as the Champion Company of the term.

Sword of Honour: The Dream of Every Gentleman Cadet

Among all awards presented at IMA, none carries greater prestige than the Sword of Honour.

Awarded for the best overall performance in military training, academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, the Sword of Honour symbolises excellence in every aspect of an officer's development.

This term, the coveted distinction was awarded to Academy Cadet Adjutant Vishal Kumar, who also secured the Gold Medal, making his achievement even more remarkable.

President Murmu's Inspiring Address

Addressing the newly commissioned officers, President Droupadi Murmu congratulated the cadets, their families, instructors, and academy staff for their contributions to this achievement.

She highlighted:

• The growing role of women in the armed forces.
• The presence of cadets from friendly foreign countries.
• The importance of military professionalism and ethical leadership.
• The responsibility of safeguarding India's sovereignty, unity, and integrity.

The President reminded the cadets that military leadership is not merely about command, but also about character, compassion, and commitment.

Her message emphasised that every officer carries the trust of over 140 crore Indians and must lead by example while caring for their soldiers.

International Brotherhood in Uniform

The parade also showcased India's strong military ties with friendly foreign nations.

Officer Cadets from multiple countries trained alongside Indian cadets at IMA, strengthening international defence cooperation and mutual understanding. Their presence reflected India's commitment to building lasting military partnerships and promoting peace and stability across regions.

An Inspiring Address to Future Leaders

During his address, the Reviewing Officer reminded the newly commissioned officers of the immense responsibility they carry.

He emphasised that military leadership is not merely about commanding troops but about character, compassion, integrity, and selfless service. The officers were encouraged to remain lifelong learners, lead from the front, care for their soldiers, and uphold the highest traditions of the Indian Army.

The message was clear:

"You carry the sacred trust of over 140 crore Indians."

The Moment Every Cadet Waits For: Antim Pag

No part of the Passing Out Parade is more emotional than the Antim Pag (Final Step).

As the newly commissioned officers slowly marched toward the historic Chetwode Building, emotions ran high among cadets and families alike.

This symbolic final step marks the transition from cadet to officer.

It is the moment when years of effort, struggle, and sacrifice finally culminate in success.

For every IMA graduate, Antim Pag becomes a memory that lasts a lifetime.

A Salute from the Sky

Adding grandeur to the celebrations, three Cheetah helicopters of the 23 Independent Reconnaissance and Observation Flight flew over the Drill Square carrying the National Flag, Army Flag, and IMA Flag.

The flypast served as a fitting tribute to the newly commissioned officers and their remarkable achievement.

More Than a Ceremony

The Passing Out Parade is often described as the end of training.

In reality, it is the beginning of a far greater journey.

The cadets who crossed the Antim Pag will soon lead soldiers in some of the world's most demanding operational environments.

They will make difficult decisions, inspire their men, protect the nation, and uphold the honour of the Indian Army.

Conclusion

The IMA Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade was a powerful reminder that India's military strength is built not merely on weapons and technology, but on character, leadership, and sacrifice.

As the final notes of the military band faded and the newly commissioned officers marched out of the Academy, one truth became evident:

The future of the Indian Army is in capable hands.

These young officers now carry forward a legacy built by generations of warriors before them.

Their journey at IMA may have ended, but their service to the nation has only just begun.

"The safety, honour and welfare of your country come first, always and every time."

Jai Hind!

Read more:

President Droupadi Murmu to Witness First Women Cadets Commissioning at IMA POP