Indian Army gets 419 new officers; Sri Lankan Army chief reviews parade, recalls own training days at IMA
Among them were 419 officer cadets commissioned into the Indian Army and 32 from friendly foreign nations.
Sri Lanka Army Commander Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, an alumnus of IMA, reviewed the parade. Lt Gen Rodrigo, who passed out in 1990, is the first foreign military chief to return to his alma mater as chief guest and reviewing officer.
The cadets on parade belonged to the 156 Regular Course, 45th Technical Entry Scheme (TES), 139th Technical Graduate Course (TGC), Special Commissioned Officers (SCO-54), and contingents from the nine foreign countries.
The cadets marched to tunes like 'Sare Jahan Se Achha' and 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja' in precise formations, in a reflection of the rigorous training and discipline instilled at the academy.
Addressing the cadets, Lt Gen Rodrigo said, "This place doesn't just train officers; it forges bonds that last a lifetime". He also recounted memories from his own training days fondly, including sharing an anecdote about "my first haircut at the IMA barber shop."
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The Sri Lankan Army chief urged cadets to wear their uniforms "not just with pride, but with purpose" as it is "a symbol of their nation's trust and a reminder that they represent something greater than themselves."
"Respect isn't granted with a commission; it's earned daily through conduct, character, and choices…True leadership is tested not in peace, but in the chaos of conflict, as I experienced during Sri Lanka's long and difficult internal strife," he said.
He called on the young officers to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, loyalty, and honour, describing them as the sacred pillars of military life.
"The country's safety, welfare and honour come first, then the honour, safety and welfare of the men you command. Your own safety and comfort comes last," Rodrigo added, calling it a timeless lesson he had learnt at the academy. He urged the officer cadets to "lead from the front and be a source of strength in fear, a beacon in doubt, and hope in despair."
"Never forget the men you lead. They will follow you into fire, but only when they know you'll be at the front," he said.
He concluded his address with a quote of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw:"Be truthful, be honest, be fearless and the rest will follow."
The Sword of Honour for overall performance, as well as the silver medal, was awarded to Academy Cadet Adjutant Anni Nehra. The gold medal went to Academy Under Officer Ronit Ranjan, while Battalion Under Officer Anurag Verma received the bronze. Among international trainees, Nepal's Nishan Balami earned top honours. The Chief of Army Staff Banner for best overall company was awarded to Keren Company.
(With agency inputs)
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