The National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla, Pune, marked a monumental milestone as it hosted the Passing Out Parade (POP) for its historic 150th Course. This landmark event celebrates the successful culmination of three years of rigorous military and academic training for a new batch of future military leaders. The grand ceremony marks the transition of approximately 355 young cadets who are now prepared to join the different branches of the Indian Armed Forces.
Key Highlights of the Event
The ceremony at the iconic Khetarpal Parade Ground was filled with standard military traditions, impeccable marching contingents, and significant emotional moments for families and instructors alike.
- The Reviewing Officer: The parade was reviewed by the Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi. This marked a deeply emotional homecoming for the Army Chief, who was once a cadet at the academy himself, passing out with the 65th Course from the Charlie Squadron.
- A Spectacular Flypast: The skies above Khadakwasla roared to life with an aerial display. Operating out of the Air Force Station Lohegaon, the display featured high-speed Su-30 MKI fighter jets, trusted Chetak helicopters, the world-renowned Sarang Helicopter Aerobatics Team flying Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), and precision landings by the Akashganga Skydiving Team.
- The “Antim Pag”: The ceremony concluded with the traditional Antim Pag (Final Step), symbolizing the transformation of these young disciplined individuals into future officers of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Convocation Ceremony: Fostering “Scholar Warriors”
A day prior to the main parade, the academic achievements of the graduating cadets were recognized at the Convocation Ceremony held at Habibullah Hall. Retired IPS officer and former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Dr. Kiran Bedi, attended the ceremony as the chief guest.
During her convocation address, Dr. Bedi urged the graduating batch to emerge as “scholar warriors” who are fully capable of leading the nation through increasingly complex, dynamic, and modern global security environments.
A total of 236 cadets were conferred Bachelor’s Degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), which included 65 from the Science stream, 112 from Computer Science, and 59 from the Arts stream. Additionally, degrees were awarded to 21 cadets from friendly foreign nations who trained alongside their Indian counterparts.
Why This Milestone Matters
The 150th Course represents more than just a graduation; it reflects nearly eight decades of enduring legacy for India’s premier tri-services training institution. Widely regarded as the cradle of military leadership, the NDA continues to mold young minds under its foundational motto of “Service Before Self.”
Following this graduation ceremony, the 355 cadets will proceed to their respective pre-commissioning academies—the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, or the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal—for specialized, service-specific training before officially receiving their commissions as officers.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Milestone: The National Defence Academy successfully celebrated the Passing Out Parade of its landmark 150th Course.
- Cadets Graduated: Approximately 355 cadets completed their training to enter the next phase of military qualification.
- Honored Review: Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the parade at Khetarpal Parade Ground.
- Academic Excellence: 236 cadets received degrees from JNU, alongside 21 foreign national cadets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the National Defence Academy located?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is located at Khadakwasla in Pune, Maharashtra. It is the premier tri-services academy where cadets for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force train together.
Who was the Chief Guest for the 150th Course ceremonies?
The Passing Out Parade was reviewed by the Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, while the academic Convocation Ceremony was addressed by former IPS officer Dr. Kiran Bedi.
What happens to the cadets after passing out from the NDA?
After graduating from the NDA, the cadets proceed to their respective service academies (IMA Dehradun for Army, INA Ezhimala for Navy, and AFA Dundigal for Air Force) for one year of specialized training before being commissioned as officers.
