General Upendra Dwivedi Returns to NDA as Reviewing Officer for 150th Passing Out Parade
Pune, 29 May 2026 — In a significant event for the National Defence Academy (NDA), General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, the 30th Chief of the Army Staff, will return to his alma mater as the Reviewing Officer for the Passing Out Parade of the historic 150th Course on 30 May 2026.
This event marks an emotional return for General Dwivedi, who once roamed the corridors of Charlie Squadron at NDA Khadakwasla as a cadet of the 65th Course. Now, he stands at the summit of the Indian Army, ready to review and inspire the future officers of the military on the very grounds where his own distinguished journey commenced.
Early Life and Formative Years at NDA
General Upendra Dwivedi was born on 1 July 1964 in Madhya Pradesh. His education began at Sainik School, Rewa, between 1973 and 1981, before he joined the National Defence Academy. As a cadet of the 65th Course and part of Charlie Squadron, he underwent the rigorous training renowned for molding some of India's most notable military leaders.
After completing his tenure at NDA, he went on to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, receiving his commission in the 18 Jammu & Kashmir Rifles on 15 December 1984. The discipline and leadership skills acquired during his time in Charlie Squadron were instrumental throughout his career.
A Career Defined by Excellence and Versatility
Throughout his nearly 42-year career, General Dwivedi has taken on numerous roles in command, staff, instructional, and operational capacities across various environments.
He led his battalion in counter-insurgency operations both in the Kashmir Valley and the deserts of Rajasthan and served as the Inspector General, Assam Rifles (East) in the North East, enhancing border security efforts. His leadership roles include commanding IX Corps and later as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command (2022–2024), where he advanced technological modernization with indigenous platforms and integrated advanced analytics and artificial intelligence.
His staff appointments include Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (Information Systems and Coordination), Director General Infantry, and teaching positions at IMA and the Army War College, Mhow. Internationally, he has served with the United Nations in Somalia and as a Military Attaché to Seychelles.
General Dwivedi took over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff on 30 June 2024, following General Manoj Pande. His tenure has focused on promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense, modernizing forces, ensuring soldier welfare, and developing integrated, technologically advanced capabilities.
The Landmark 150th Passing Out Parade
The Passing Out Parade of the 150th Course will take place on Saturday, 30 May 2026, at the esteemed Khetarpal Parade Ground at NDA Khadakwasla, Pune. This course is notable for including the third batch of female cadets since the inclusion of women in 2022, following a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
General Dwivedi, as Reviewing Officer, will inspect the parade, address the graduating cadets, and award medals to the top performers. A convocation ceremony is set for 29 May 2026, with Dr. Kiran Bedi, a retired IPS officer and former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, as the Chief Guest, who will confer degrees and distribute awards to outstanding cadets.
Approximately 355 cadets are anticipated to graduate and move on to their respective service academies — the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy — for specialized pre-commission training.
A Powerful Symbol of Inspiration
The participation of the Chief of the Army Staff holds deep symbolic significance. General Dwivedi revisited NDA in late 2025 and reflected on his formative years in Charlie Squadron, acknowledging the academy's crucial role in shaping leadership. The personal connection to his alma mater is underscored by official images shared from his visit.
His ascent from a cadet in Charlie Squadron to the highest ranks of the Indian Army exemplifies the transforming impact of NDA training. His career journey underscores how exceptional leadership can evolve from disciplined beginnings into decades of national service and operational expertise.
For the young officers of the 150th Course, who will be part of the early batches of women graduating alongside their male cohorts, the presence of General Dwivedi as the Reviewing Officer is both an inspiration and a validation.
Legacy and Forward Outlook
Under General Dwivedi's leadership, the Indian Army is transforming into a more agile, technologically advanced, and self-reliant entity while preserving its core values of courage, integrity, and selfless duty. His return to NDA on 30 May 2026 reinforces the enduring bonds between the academy and its graduates who ascend to the upper echelons of command.
As the nation looks forward to this historic Passing Out Parade, it is clear: the halls of Charlie Squadron at NDA have once more nurtured a leader who embodies the finest traditions of the Indian Armed Forces, and who now returns to honor and inspire those who will follow in his path.
The 150th Course Passing Out Parade, reviewed by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, on 30 May 2026 at NDA Khadakwasla, represents a moment of pride, reflection, and renewed dedication to excellence in service to the nation.
