NDA’s Historic 150th Passing Out Parade; 353 Cadets Cross the Antim Pag at Khetarpal Parade Ground

**Executive Summary** The National Defence Academy (NDA) conducted its historic 150th Passing Out Parade for the Spring Term 2026 on May 30, 2026, at the Khetarpal Parade Ground. Reviewed by the Chief of the Army Staff, Gen Upendra Dwivedi, the ceremony marked the graduation of 353 cadets, including the first groups of female and foreign trainees. The event concluded with the presentation of merit medals and a Sukhoi-30 flypast, signaling the cadets' transition to their respective military services. **Key Points / Main Content** **Event Highlights** * **Occasion:** The graduation of the 150th Course, featuring a ceremonial march past the Quarterdeck and the crossing of the ‘Antim Pag’ (Final Step). * **Grand Finale:** The event culminated in a flypast by Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft. * **Attendance:** The parade was attended by dignitaries, proud parents, school children, and both serving and retired Defence Forces personnel. **Cadet Statistics and Composition** * **Total Graduates:** 353 cadets successfully completed the training. * **Gender Inclusivity:** The graduating class included 18 female cadets. * **International Cooperation:** 24 cadets from 12 friendly foreign countries were among the graduates. **Leadership and Recognition** * **Reviewing Officer:** Gen Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, Chief of the Army Staff. * **Parade Leadership:** The parade was commanded by Academy Cadet Captain Mayank Choudhary and conducted by Adjutant Lt Col Avinash Pandey. * **Merit Awards:** The President’s Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals were awarded to the top three cadets in the overall order of merit. **Impact Analysis** **Graduating Cadets** **Impact** These individuals have officially transitioned from trainees to NDA alumni, marking a transformative milestone in their military careers. **Action Required** Graduates must now join their respective Services or Pre-Commission Training Academies (PCTAs) for the next phase of their professional development. **Friendly Foreign Countries** **Impact** The graduation of 24 international cadets strengthens the military ties and collaborative training legacy between India and the 12 participating friendly nations. **Action Required** The respective nations will integrate these trained personnel into their own defence frameworks. **National Defence Academy (NDA)** **Impact** The successful completion of the 150th course reinforces the Academy’s commitment to excellence, nation-building, and evolving inclusivity. **Action Required** The institution continues its mandate to train subsequent courses (Spring and Autumn terms) following the standards set by the Spring Term 2026.

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