On 13 December 2025, the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, will host its most important event: the Passing Out Parade (POP). Every year, the POP marks the day when Gentleman Cadets transform from Cadet to Officer, after a gruelling period of training, development of Character and Discipline.
The Passing Out Parade (POP) is an event that creates deep emotion among Cadets, Friends and Family, and all Defence Aspirational People across India.
What Makes the IMA Passing Out Parade So Special?
Known for its precision, coordination, and military excellence, the POP is considered one of India’s most iconic parades. Every tradition followed here reflects the Academy's legacy and ethos.
1. The Historic Chetwode Drill Square
The parade at the IMA takes place on a historic parade ground at Chetwode Drill Square, where generations of leaders have honed their skills, and allows cadets to leave the ground knowing that they have demonstrated the utmost professional bearing through each step.
Each perfectly synchronised step reflects their courage, confidence, and sense of commitment to service toward India.
2. The Tradition of Antim Pag
Perhaps the most emotional part of the ceremony, Antim Pag marks the last step a cadet takes as a trainee. The very next moment, he steps forward as a commissioned officer. Families often watch this moment with moist eyes and hearts full of pride.
3. Training Cadets From Across the World
The IMA has gained a reputation as a centre of excellence for developing military cadets from all over the world, serving as the location for the training of nearly 66,000 officers, including around 3,000 from allied nations.
4. Presentation of the Sword of Honour
The Sword of Honour for excellence in Leadership, Academics, and Physical Fitness is awarded at all POPs for excellence achieved by the Gentleman Cadets.
5. Presence of Senior Leaders, Including the Army Chief
The POP is a momentous occasion, bringing together high-ranking leaders of the Indian Armed Forces to witness and salute the contributions of the IMA and cadets graduating from the Academy and entering the Army.
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi to Review the Parade
The Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, will carry out the review of the parade, the inspection of the marching contingents and the presentation of the Graduation Certificates to the newly commissioned officers.
Established in 1932 with just 40 cadets, IMA today trains up to 1,660 cadets at a time and continues to produce officers who lead with courage, professionalism, and integrity.
The Academy stands tall on its enduring Chetwode Motto:
“The safety, honour and welfare of your country come first, always and every time…”
Artillery Cadets Felicitated Ahead of POP 2025
Excitement is especially high among cadets joining the prestigious Regiment of Artillery, known as the “Arm of Decision.”
Cadets of the following courses were recently felicitated with their Artillery accoutrements:
- 157 Regular Course
- 140 Technical Graduate Course (TGC)
- 55 Special Commission Officers (SCO) Course
- 46 Technical Entry Scheme (TES) Course
Maj Gen Rajender Prakash, VSM (Retd), as Chief Guest
Maj Gen Rajender Prakash inspired the cadets to:
- Lead with courage
- Demonstrate unwavering discipline
- Uphold the rich traditions of the Artillery
Veteran Gunner Officers attended the occasion, blessed the soon-to-be-commissioned officers, and shared experiences that were invaluable. Such interactions inspired the young cadets and further reinforced their confidence when they head for active service.
This moment of recognition just before the POP becomes a memory to be treasured by every Artillery officer.
Dehradun’s Traffic Plan for POP Week (6–13 December)
Anticipating thousands of visitors for the ceremony, the Dehradun Police have drawn up an elaborate traffic management plan for smooth traffic flow around the IMA campus.
A whole IMA vicinity has been declared a Zero Zone, where entry of vehicles would be restricted during parade hours.
Diversion Timings
- 6 December: 7 AM – 11 AM
- 9 December: 7 AM – 11 AM
- 11 December: 7 AM – 11 AM & 4 PM – 7:30 PM
- 12 December: 4 PM – 7:30 PM
- 13 December: 6 AM – 12:30 PM
Key Diversion Routes
- Ballupur → Premnagar: Via Rangharwala Tiraaha → Mithi Beri
- Premnagar → City: Via Daru Chowk → Shimla Bypass → Niranjanpur
- Heavy Vehicles (Selakui zone): Via Dhulkot → Singhniwala → Nayagaon
- Doon → Vikasnagar (heavy vehicles): Via Shimla Bypass → Dharmawala
These arrangements aim to maintain safety and ease congestion during the big day.
A Parade That Celebrates Dreams, Discipline & the Future
As 13 December approaches, there is a special kind of energy across Dehradun and within the defence community. The IMA POP represents:
- The end of a challenging journey
- The beginning of a life of service
- The dreams of families
- The legacy of the Indian Army
- The bond between trainers and cadets
From the emotional Antim Pag to the presentation of the Sword of Honour, and from the proud march of Indian and foreign cadets to the encouragement of veterans every moment at the POP, it is unforgettable.
For the cadets, it marks the start of their leadership journey. For their families, it is a moment of unmatched pride. For institutions like Centurion Defence Academy, it is a celebration of mentorship and hard work. And for the nation, it is the rise of a new generation of officers ready to stand on the frontline.
Read more:
Breaking Barriers: 4 Civilian Cadets Shine at NDA After a Decade
Taxi Driver’s Son Wins President’s Gold Medal at NDA 149th POP
Who is Siddhi Jain? The First woman cadet to receive the President's Medal at NDA
