Indian Military Academy Commissions First Women Officers in Historic Passing Out Parade, June 2026
Today, India's President and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, conducted an inspection of the Passing Out Parade for the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. The event, which took place at the renowned Chetwode Building Drill Square, signified the induction of 515 officer cadets into the Indian Army, including a pioneering group of nine female cadets.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami was also in attendance for the occasion.
Addressing the newly appointed officers, President Murmu highlighted the essential duties of military leadership. She conveyed that as Army officers, these cadets will take on the responsibility of leading, mentoring, and caring for their soldiers. The President stressed that the role requires not only technical expertise but also empathy, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of those they are responsible for.
The President also noted the historical importance of the nine women cadets in the parade, marking a significant moment in the IMA's history. She remarked that their participation is not just a milestone for India's defense forces but also an inspiring example of the country's progress towards women-led development. These women, who began their journey at the Academy in July 2025, have completed their rigorous training alongside male peers and are now commissioned, highlighting the broadening opportunities for women in leadership and combat roles.
President Murmu further recognized the presence of 34 foreign officer cadets from 16 allied nations who were commissioned with their Indian counterparts. She mentioned that their participation reflects India's dedication to nurturing global friendship, cooperation, and peaceful relations. Training foreign cadets at the IMA continues to be a crucial element of defense diplomacy and mutual capacity development.
Since its establishment on October 1, 1932, the Indian Military Academy has trained over 65,000 officers. The Passing Out Parade symbolizes the completion of comprehensive military training that includes physical fitness, tactical expertise, leadership, and ethical values. The 158th Regular Course and 141st Technical Graduate Course represent prominent avenues for entering the officer cadre of the Indian Army.
Today's ceremony is especially noteworthy as it marks the commissioning of the first female cadets through permanent commission at the IMA. Their successful training alongside male cadets demonstrates the institution’s ability to integrate its longstanding traditions with evolving officer composition while maintaining exemplary military standards.
The proceedings included a traditional march-past, the administration of the oath, and the formal commissioning. The presence of the Supreme Commander as the Reviewing Officer provided additional prestige to the ceremony, affirming the nation's confidence in its future military leaders.
This Passing Out Parade is significant as it merges traditional values with progressive change, reinforcing the Indian Army's dedication to merit, inclusivity, and operational excellence. The newly commissioned officers now become part of a legacy defined by the IMA's motto — “Valour and Wisdom” — and will continue the tradition of service to the nation.
The commissioning of these 515 officers, including the historic group of women and the international contingent, enhances the Indian Army's leadership capabilities and emphasizes India's rising profile in global defense collaboration.
