Legacy, Leadership and Learning: 515 Cadets take oath as Army officers at IMA

The Indian Military Academy (IMA) , Dehradun, held its Spring Term 2026 Passing-Out Parade on Saturday, commissioning 515 officer cadets , including nine women , into the Indian Army . The ceremony, reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu , reflected IMA’s long-standing military traditions and discipline since 1932, with emotional scenes as families participated in the ceremonial pipping of ranks.

The parade highlighted both heritage and evolving representation , with cadets drawn from multi-generational military families alongside new entrants. The commissioning of nine women officers underscored the Army’s increasing role of women in leadership positions across operational and support domains. Among them was Shanan Dhaka , posted to eastern Ladakh, who credited her military family background and encouraged more women to join the forces.

Academic excellence was recognised with Cadet Adjutant Vishal Kumar receiving the Sword of Honour and Gold Medal for standing first in the Regular Course. Other toppers included Prince Raj (Silver Medal), Tejas Bhatt (Bronze Medal), and course leaders in specialised streams such as Hrishabh Mishra , Bodh Raj Thapa , Karan Pandey , and Zaif Sadid Alvy , named Best Foreign Officer Cadet.

The parade also showcased stories of service and legacy, including Lt Saurabh Chaudhary , a third-generation Army officer, and Aryan Gill , who hails from a multi-generational military family. Cadets highlighted the academy’s role in instilling discipline, leadership, and transformation through rigorous training.

Senior military officials, Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd.) , Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami , and Army Training Command leadership attended the ceremony, reaffirming IMA’s role in shaping future Army leaders while reflecting the growing presence of women officers in the Indian Army .