IMA Passing Out Parade 2025 – Dehradun
On June 14, 2025, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) at Dehradun hosted its 156th Passing Out Parade (POP) at the historic Chetwode Drill Square, commissioning 451 cadets – including 419 Indian and 32 foreign trainees – into the Indian Army and allied forces
Reviewing Officer & Global Bonds
The parade was reviewed by Lt Gen BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army and an alumnus from the 87th IMA Course. It marked a poignant homecoming, as he recalled the rigours of his training 30 years ago
In his address, Lt Gen Rodrigo urged officers to lead from the front, reminding cadets that leadership reveals itself “not in peace but in chaos of conflict,” and to uphold duty, integrity, and respect earned through action
Top Cadet Honours
- Sword of Honour & Silver Medal: Anni Nehra (Haryana, from Rashtriya Military School, Belgaum) – the best all-around cadet
- Gold Medal: Ronit Ranjan Nayak, 1st in order of merit
- Bronze Medal: Anurag Verma, 3rd in order of merit
- CELEBRATED FOREIGN CADET: Nishan Balami (Nepal) led the foreign trainees in merit
Keren Company earned the Chief of Army Staff Banner as the best-performing unit among thirteen companies.
Inspiring Cadet Journeys
- Anni Nehra, from a family of seventh- and ninth-generation Jat soldiers, epitomised legacy and excellence
- As an example of tenacity and determination, Tsering Nurdup, a Ladakh farmer’s son and former rifleman in the Ladakh Scouts, became a lieutenant.
Ceremony & Traditions
- With unmatched discipline, 451 cadets from the 139th Technical Graduate Course, 45th Technical Entry Scheme, and 156th Regular Course marched.
- With clear accuracy and poignant closure, the Antim Pag (last step) mirrored the pivotal moment, from cadet to commissioned officer.
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Strategic & Cultural Significance
- This event underscored IMA’s ongoing role in defence training leadership, with 32 cadets from nine friendly nations graduating, enhancing India’s global defence diplomacy
- The return of a foreign reviewing officer highlighted deep military cooperation and friendship between India and Sri Lanka
Final Thoughts
The 2025 IMA Passing Out Parade was a potent fusion of custom, distinction, and global solidarity. With bright cadets like Anni Nehra, the constant presence of international trainees, and the sincere advice of Lt. Gen. Rodrigo, the occasion once again confirmed the academy’s tradition of producing future leaders.
FAQs about 156th IMA Passing Out Parade
Ans. The professional commissioning of Gentleman Cadets (GCs) from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) into the Indian Army is widely known with a lavish rite.
Ans. Two batches of education will conclude with the POP, which is predicted to take place in June and December 2025.
Ans. The POP took place on the Indian Military Academy’s Drill Square in Dehradun, within the Chetwode Building.
Ans. It is usually reviewed by a senior Army officer, often the Chief of Army Staff or a decorated General.
Ans. Every passing out ceremony usually sees the commissioning of 300–400 Indian and foreign cadets
Ans. It represents the successful completion of demanding training, a moment of pride that embodies self-control, selflessness, and development into future Army leaders.