The National Defence Academy (NDA) witnessed two days of remarkable celebrations as the 149th course completed its training with the Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Khetrapal Parade Ground and the Convocation Ceremony at Habibullah Hall. The events reflected NDA’s enduring commitment to producing officers of character, intellect, and leadership for the Indian Armed Forces.
Passing Out Parade Reviewed by Naval Chief
The POP was held this morning at Khetrapal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Pune, where Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, reviewed the parade. A total of 329 cadets marched onto the parade ground in a display of immaculate drill and discipline, marking the completion of their rigorous tri-services training.
Cadet Siddharth Singh commanded the parade with exceptional bearing and precision.
Navy Chief’s Address: ‘Technology, Power, and Duty Will Define You’
Addressing the cadets, Admiral Tripathi said he saw in them the next generation of military leaders—disciplined, determined, and ready to safeguard India’s peace, security, and sovereignty.
He emphasised the growing importance of technology in modern warfare, stating:
“Technology is changing the speed of thoughts; technology is our greatest asset in the future.”
Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he reminded cadets that “the path of peace also goes through power”, adding that the parade reaffirmed the NDA’s exemplary standards.
He further encouraged cadets to prioritise duty over accolades:
“Focus on your duty, not the award. An award does not define your capability—your duty defines you.”
Women Cadets Making Their Mark
Admiral Tripathi also highlighted the presence of the second batch of women cadets in the 149th course.
“These young women today stand shoulder to shoulder with the men’s squadrons,” he said, commending their courage and determination.
The first-ever batch of women cadets graduated from the NDA in May 2024. This progressive change followed the 2021 Supreme Court ruling, after which the UPSC opened NDA entry to women, marking a historic shift in India’s defence training landscape.
Honours at the Parade
The ceremony also recognised the best performers of the outgoing course:
- President’s Gold Medal: Cadet Deepak Kandpal
- President’s Silver Medal: Cadet Siddharth Singh
- President’s Bronze Medal: Cadet Siddhi Jain
The coveted Chief of Staff Banner was awarded to Golf Squadron for overall excellence in training, discipline, and performance.
Convocation Ceremony Highlights Academic Excellence
A day before the parade, the Convocation Ceremony for the 149th course was held at Habibullah Hall. Dr. Ajay Kumar, Chairman of UPSC, presided over the event as Chief Guest. He was received by Vice Admiral Anil Jaggi, Commandant, NDA.
Dr. Vinay Deep, Officiating Principal, presented the Academic Report of Autumn Term 2025, outlining key academic milestones and achievements.
Degree Distribution
In total, 328 cadets received degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU):
- 72 cadets – Science Stream
- 92 cadets – Computer Science Stream
- 52 cadets – Arts/Social Science Stream
India’s international defence training partnerships were reflected in the graduation of 18 cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries who also received degrees.
Additionally, 112 B.Tech cadets from the Navy and Air Force were awarded three-year course completion certificates. They will complete the final phase of their engineering degrees at:
- Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala
- Air Force Academy, Hyderabad
Academic Toppers of the 149th Course
The convocation honoured the toppers across streams—an inspiring group, all from civilian backgrounds, each driven by childhood dreams of serving the nation.
Science Stream
- Cadet Kartik Maheshwari (M Squadron)
- FGPA: 8.11
- Awards: Commandant’s Silver Medal, COAS Rolling Trophy
Computer Science Stream
- Cadet Ananya (G Squadron)
- FGPA: 8.36
- Awards: Commandant’s Silver Medal, Admiral’s Rolling Trophy
Social Science Stream
- Cadet Anurag Gupta (B Squadron)
- FGPA: 7.44
- Awards: Commandant’s Silver Medal, CAS Trophy
B.Tech Stream
- Cadet Vishwesh Bhalerao (F Squadron)
- CGPA: 8.05
- Awards: Commandant’s Silver Medal, CISC Trophy
Vishwesh also shared the childhood experience that inspired his military dream:
“The Sukhoi jets flying over Pune skies made me dream of joining the NDA. Sitting on the balcony with my parents and grandparents, I would imagine myself flying one someday,” he recalled.
A Cohort Defined by Excellence and Service
The 149th course stands out not only for its academic and military achievements but also for the diverse civilian backgrounds of its toppers—each carrying an inspiring story of determination and service.
With the parade concluded and degrees awarded, the newly commissioned cadets will soon proceed to their respective service academies to begin the next phase of their military careers, embodying the values of courage, integrity, and leadership that define the NDA.
