The Winter Term Passing Out Parade 2026 at the Officers Training Academy, Gaya, was a proud and emotional moment for hundreds of officer cadets, their families, and the entire nation. The parade marked the successful completion of rigorous military training and the beginning of a new journey as commissioned officers in the Indian Army.
From perfectly synchronised drill movements to inspiring speeches and emotional final steps on the parade ground, the ceremony beautifully showcased discipline, dedication, and the spirit of service.
A Parade That Showed Discipline and Precision
The Passing Out Parade took place on the prestigious Captain M.V. Pranjal Drill Square, where cadets displayed outstanding drill precision and military bearing. Drill is one of the most important aspects of military training because it builds discipline, coordination, and teamwork qualities that every soldier must carry throughout their career.
The cadets marched with confidence and pride, demonstrating the months of hard training they had undergone at the academy. Their shining rifles and synchronised steps reflected the highest standards of military professionalism.
The parade was commanded by Academy Under Officer Kuldeep, who led the marching contingents with great confidence and composure.
Contingents That Took Part in the Parade
Several companies of the academy participated in the parade, each marching proudly with their respective commanders. These companies included:
- Izzar Company
- Gurez Company
- Basantar Company
- Dograi Company
- Tithwal Company
- Rezang La Company
- Longewala Company
- Hajipir Company
Each contingent represented months of hard work, physical training, weapon training, field craft, and leadership development.
As the contingents marched to the famous tune “Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja,” the atmosphere on the parade ground became even more energetic and patriotic.
Distinguished Officers Present at the Ceremony
The ceremony was attended by several senior officers of the Indian Army.
The parade adjutant was Lieutenant Colonel Prakhar Dhakad, an officer with vast operational experience who has served in challenging terrains such as Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, and desert regions. He has also served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission, representing India internationally.
The event was conducted under the leadership of Major General Govardhan Singh (Sena Medal), Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor of OTA Gaya.
The academy itself is commanded by Lieutenant General Vivek Kashyap, the 12th Commandant of OTA Gaya, who has had an illustrious career with command and staff appointments across the Indian Army.
Reviewing Officer for the Parade
The Reviewing Officer for the Passing Out Parade was Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army Southern Command.
During his address to the cadets, he praised the outstanding drill standards displayed during the parade and congratulated them for completing their training.
He reminded the young officers that commissioning into the army is not just a ceremonial moment but the beginning of a life dedicated to honour, duty, and service to the nation.
He also spoke about modern security challenges, such as:
- Hybrid warfare
- Cyber threats
- Technological changes in battlefields
- Increasingly complex global security situations
He emphasised that young officers must lead by example and uphold the highest standards of military leadership.
Key Awards and Medals
Outstanding cadets were recognised for their exceptional performance during training.
Gold Medal – First in Overall Order of Merit
Battalion Under Officer Ashwin Kirfai
(Commissioned into the Corps of Signals)
Silver Medal – Second in Order of Merit
Academy Under Officer Kuldeep
(Commissioned into the Rajputana Rifles)
Bronze Medal – Third in Order of Merit
Battalion Cadet Adjutant Chiranjeevi
(Commissioned into the Army Service Corps)
These awards represent excellence in academics, physical training, weapon handling, leadership, and overall performance.
Best Company Award
The Chief of Army Staff Banner for the Winter Term was awarded to Gurez Company for its outstanding performance across all training parameters, including:
- Service subjects
- Physical training
- Weapon training
- Drill
- Sports
Winning this banner is considered one of the highest achievements for a company during the training term.
Emotional Final Step – The “Antim Pag”
One of the most emotional moments of the parade was the “Antim Pag” (Final Step) ceremony.
As the band played the soulful tune “Auld Lang Syne,” the cadets marched slowly past the saluting dais and took their final step out of the academy as commissioned officers.
For many parents and families present at the parade, it was a deeply emotional moment to see their sons and daughters proudly wearing the uniform of the Indian Army.
A Journey From Cadet to Officer
The passing out parade marked the successful completion of training for cadets from:
- 64th Short Service Commission (Technical) Course for Men
- 35th Short Service Commission (Technical) Course for Women
After months of intense training that included physical endurance, tactical exercises, leadership tasks, and field drills, these cadets are now ready to take on the responsibilities of leading soldiers in some of the toughest conditions.
A Tribute to Courage and Sacrifice
The academy also pays tribute to fallen heroes like Captain M.V. Pranjal (Shaurya Chakra), an alumnus who was martyred during a counter-insurgency operation in Jammu & Kashmir in 2023.
His sacrifice stands as a reminder of the ultimate commitment that military officers must be ready to make for the nation.
