Dehradun: The Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) was broadcasted live for the first time across India on the Indian Army's Youtube Channel. In another first, the traditional pipping ceremony was done by senior officers at the academy.
This was the first time in the history of IMA that parents of the cadets were not invited for the POP amidst COVID-19 pandemic.
Army General Chief MM Naravane, the chief guest of the event too joined in the pipping ceremony by putting a star on the uniform of a young cadet.
The parade also refrained from following several rituals including attachment of rank insignia by the families, push-ups activity after the piping ceremony and even the cadets of best performing company were not be allowed to touch the medals bestowed on them.
Read: With face masks on, passing out parade held at IMA Dehradun
The tradition of crossing the threshold of the Chatwood Building was termed as 'first step' instead of 'last step'. A total of 423 officers have taken part in the parade and at least 333 officers are expected to join the Indian Army.
Even though several public events and celebrations were missing this time around due to COVID-19, the traditional passing out parade showcased 'josh', jubilation and discipline of Gentlemen Cadets (GCs).
So far, IMA has trained 62,139 national and foreign officers, including 2,413 officers from the Commonwealth countries.
