‘Soldiers should keep in step with technological advancements’

“As Armed Forces personnel,you should be aware of technological advancements as well as developments in various academic and professional disciplines. You should build on the Bachelor’s degree gained from here through self-education. Prepare to tackle demanding situations with common sense and ingenuity,” he said. The onus was now on the ‘newest entrants to the Armed Forces’ to build upon the foundations that their alma mater had provided them with,he said.

The Armed Forces are being entrusted with greater,ever-increasing responsibilities regionally,owing to steady economic growth,he said. Mukul pointed out that by the time the cadets of the 116th course join the tri-services as officers after further training,new aircraft,military equipment and ships would be awaiting them.

“The Defence Forces are the most vital cog in safeguarding and promoting our national interests. Thus,numerous initiatives have been taken to modernise the tri-services at a rapid pace,to further augment effectiveness and maximise potential,” he said. Meanwhile,for the graduating cadets,the passing out parade is a significant and emotional occasion,for even as ambitions soar and dreams take shape in their march towards a future in the Armed Forces,almost all of them will retain fond memories of their years and experiences at the NDA. “We may have graduated,but we can never completely leave the NDA behind. This is a proud,exciting,yet sad moment. We owe a lot to this place and all that lies ahead will have its roots right here,” said a cadet. And for everyone who is part of the audience,be it the several senior officers,for whom returning to the NDA is a sort of homecoming,the parents of cadets or other invitees,the experience is nothing short of spectacular.

A total of 376 cadets,including 16 from countries such as Afghanistan,Bhutan and Tajikistan,graduated from the NDA on Sunday.

The President’s gold medal for best cadet (overall) was presented to G Hridaya,who commanded the parade,while the silver medal went to P S Rana and V S Kalukhe bagged the bronze medal. The ‘Golf’ squadron was adjudged the champion squadron and awarded the Chiefs of Staff banner. The Khetrapal Parade Ground at the NDA provided an ideal setting as the graduating cadets marched in slow time up to the quarterdeck,as Robert Burns’ Auld Lang Syne symbolically played in the background.