President of India Droupadi Murmu termed the passing out of the first batch of nine women officers from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) a watershed moment as the Indian Army inducted 581 fresh officers following the Passing Out Parade (POP) of 515 officer cadets from the academy on Saturday. The President expressed hope that more women cadets would join the IMA and urged the newly commissioned officers to be kind and caring towards their fellow soldiers.
Addressing the Spring Term POP 2026 of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the IMA in Dehradun, the President said, “I am especially delighted to see nine women cadets. This is a watershed moment in the history of the IMA. It is not only a milestone in the history of India’s defence forces but also an inspiring example of India’s progress towards women-led development. I am sure that many more women cadets will join the academy.”
Addressing the cadets, President Murmu said, “Your journey at the IMA has been one of discipline, sacrifice and perseverance. You have learnt that military leadership is not only about command but also about character, compassion and commitment.”
President Droupadi Murmu stressed that the Indian Armed Forces are the guardians of the nation’s sovereignty and carry the trust of 140 crore citizens on their shoulders. “You are the protectors of the nation’s sovereignty and integrity. You carry the sacred trust of our 140 crore citizens. You should always remember that service is the highest duty,” she said.
The President asked the newly commissioned officers to be responsible and caring towards their fellow soldiers in order to build trust and enhance the fighting capabilities of their units.
She said, “As Army officers, you will be responsible for leading, guiding and caring for your soldiers. You have to lead by example, inspiring confidence and encouraging the spirit of teamwork and dedication. By ensuring the well-being of your soldiers, you will build trust and strengthen the fighting capabilities of the units you lead.”
She added, “I expect you to lead from the front, care for your soldiers and uphold the highest traditions of our armed forces. As you pass out of this institution as proud officers of the Indian Army, you should carry in your hearts the academy’s motto, ‘Veerta and Vivek’ (Valour and Wisdom). Remain humble in success and resilient in adversity.”
Prior to her address, President Murmu reviewed the parade as the chief guest at the Chetwode Drill Square of the IMA and witnessed the impressive march-past of 515 passing-out cadets, including 34 from friendly foreign nations, to the tune of the national song Vande Mataram.
The President also presented the academy’s prestigious Sword of Honour to Academy Cadet Adjutant Vishal Kumar, the overall best-performing cadet of the passing-out course, along with other awards.