IMA Graduates Advised to be Combat Ready by Army Chief Manoj Pande

Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande emphasised the importance of skill development in response to the rapidly changing dynamics of combat during the Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Indian Military Academy (IMA). He highlighted the complex nature of the modern battle space and the need for technical expertise, mental agility, critical thinking, and quick responses to ensure success. He, also, urged the newly commissioned officers to continuously enhance their competency and consider their commissioning into the Army as the beginning of a lifelong commitment to self-improvement.

General Pande hailed soldiering as the noblest of all professions, offering individuals the opportunity to serve their motherland with selfless devotion while wearing the uniform. The POP witnessed the commissioning of 373 gentlemen cadets, including 42 from friendly foreign countries, into the armies of their respective nations.

Army under officer Mihir Banerjee was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour and the silver medal, while senior under officer Abhimanyu Singh received the gold medal. Among the states, Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of officers commissioned with 63, followed by Bihar with 33, Haryana with 32, Uttarakhand with 25, and Punjab with 23.

General Pande's address emphasised the significance of staying abreast of evolving combat dynamics and continuously striving for self-improvement to meet the challenges of the modern battlefield. The POP marked a momentous occasion for the newly commissioned officers, symbolising their commitment to serving their respective nations and upholding the values of the armed forces.