President Droupadi Murmu, who reviewed the passing out parade of 145th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla in Pune on Thursday, said that the participation of the first batch of women cadets in the marching contingent marked “a historic day.”
Around 15 women cadets participated in the passing out parade along with their male counterparts.
Terming the NDA as a “cradle of leadership” which had given birth to great warriors, the President noted how the country’s premier defence academy had begun training women cadets since 2022.
“Today, for the first time, women cadets are participating in the Passing Out Parade in the marching contingent. This is a historic day in the truest sense. I am confident that all women cadets will take the NDA and the nation to new heights in the future. Even today, our daughters have to struggle to choose the career of their liking. That is why I want to specially congratulate the women cadets,” said President Murmu.
Exhorting cadets to move forward by learning and adopting new technologies to face future challenges, she said, “Our forces are fully capable and ready to face any external or internal situation that tries to damage the spirit of unity and integrity of the country.”
Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan were present on the occasion.
Ms. Murmu also congratulated the foreign cadets from friendly nations for the completion of their course.
“This academy has a special place among the best training institutes of the country and is recognised as a strong pillar for the armed forces and the country,” she said.
Ms. Murmu further expressed confidence that they will face every challenge with courage and bravery while carrying forward the values of the armed services.
She said protection of India’s borders and internal security are essential for peace, stability and prosperity.
“We follow the tradition of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ [the world is one family], but our forces are fully capable and ready to face any external or internal situation that tries to damage the spirit of unity and integrity of the country,” she said.
The Autumn Term POP marks a special milestone as NDA completes 75 years of its foundation in January 2024.
