Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi Awarded Sword of Honour at 2025 Indian Military Academy Parade
Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi has made a significant mark in the annals of the Indian Military Academy by clinching the esteemed Sword of Honour during the 157th Passing Out Parade, which took place at the historic Drill Square in Dehradun on December 13, 2025. This accolade, the highest at the Academy, is awarded to the Officer Cadet who best demonstrates excellence in leadership, discipline, character, and military bearing throughout their training. Lieutenant Dwivedi's accomplishment highlights his steadfast dedication, exceptional professionalism, and comprehensive merit during his demanding training at the IMA.
The Passing Out Parade was observed by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, who praised the newly commissioned officers for completing one of the country's most challenging military training programs. In his address to the parade, the COAS referred to the military profession as a sacred duty that requires selfless service, moral courage, and, if necessary, the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. He emphasized the Indian Military Academy's enduring motto, “Valour and Wisdom,” and reaffirmed its tradition of shaping leaders who uphold the highest standards of the Indian Army.
General Upendra Dwivedi, in his address, discussed the evolving complexity of modern warfare, which now includes military, technological, and societal dimensions. He cited Operation SINDOOR to illustrate that contemporary conflicts require coordinated diplomatic and military efforts.
He reminded the young officers that upcoming challenges may lack straightforward solutions, testing their adaptability, judgment, and integrity. The COAS encouraged them to lead by example, maintain ethical standards, mentor their troops, and remain composed and clear-headed in times of crisis.
Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi’s impressive performance was further highlighted by his attainment of the Gold Medal for achieving the highest rank in the overall Order of Merit of the course. Securing both the Sword of Honour and the Gold Medal places him among a distinguished group of officers renowned for their outstanding training careers at the Academy. These achievements symbolize not only personal excellence but also the high caliber of leadership and training at the Indian Military Academy.
The Passing Out Parade saw the commissioning of 525 Officer Cadets from various courses, including the 157th Regular Course, 46th Technical Entry Scheme Course, 140th Technical Graduate Course, 55th Special Commissioned Officers Course, and the Territorial Army Online Entrance Exam 2023 Course.
The event also celebrated the completion of training by 34 Officer Cadets from 14 allied foreign nations, representing the enduring defense partnerships and friendships nurtured at the Academy. The COAS commended these international cadets, acknowledging that the bonds formed at IMA enhance military collaboration and mutual understanding between countries.
The ceremony was attended by proud parents, family members, senior Army officers, and distinguished guests, all of whom witnessed the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. The parade concluded with the traditional ‘Antim Pag,’ a symbolic final step marking the transition of Officer Cadets into commissioned officers of the Indian Army.
As Lieutenant Nishkal Dwivedi and his fellow cadets marched on, they embodied the honour, responsibility, and timeless values of the Indian Military Academy, prepared to serve the nation with courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
