Speaking after reviewing the passing out parade of the 146th course of National Defence Academy here, the army chief also emphasized the need for the cadets to enhance their technical competencies to effectively operate in the increasingly complex and contested battlefields of the future. An alumnus of the 61st course of NDA, Gen Pande said, “In another year’s time, you would be commissioned officers and would be mandated to lead men and women in combat.”
“In order to operate in the battlefield of tomorrow, you need to enhance your technical competency threshold,” he advised the young cadets. He said a true leader leads by example and never takes the trust of those under his command for granted, rather earns it. “While each one of you has come from different backgrounds, the one thing common is that you chose the profession of soldiering,” he said.
“Many youngsters of your age dream to be successful but only the deserving few get selected and make the mark, so be proud of your achievements,” he said. “Remember that the journey ahead in uniform is a long one and you will have a fair share of opportunities to excel and prove your mettle,” he said. “Build lasting friendships. These linkages will stand the test of time. And help in guiding and supporting you throughout the journey of life as you progress in your service career. Do identify role models and mentors from whom you can draw inspiration and take guidance.
“You’re following the path taken by generations of distinguished officers of the Indian armed forces,” he added. Underlining the role of training at NDA, the Army chief said, “Despite technological advancements, the critical role of the man or woman behind the machine in the battlefield stands undiminished. “During the training at NDA, you have been introduced to fundamental aspects of leadership. As you journey ahead, do focus on sharpening the leadership skills and work towards making yourself worthy of donning the mantle of a junior leader,” he said. “The female cadets on parade truly epitomise Nari Shakti and our commitments towards the inclusive armed forces,” he said.
A contingent of 24 female cadets, presently in their third and fourth term of training, was part of the marching contingent of the parade. A total of 1265 cadets participated in the parade of which 337 cadets were from the passing out course. The 146th course included 199 Army cadets, 38 Naval cadets and 100 Air Force cadets including 19 cadets from friendly foreign countries including Bhutan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Maldives. Known as the cradle of military leadership, NDA is the country’s premier Joint Services Training Institution. The 146th course was inducted in June 2021 and after completion of three years of rigorous military training, the cadets passed out on Friday in the grand ceremonial event. The cadets will now join their respective pre-commissioning training academies.
