In a significant address that highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi declared that technology is rapidly becoming the greatest asset for India's armed forces. The senior naval officer made these remarks while presiding over the Passing Out Parade of the 149th course at the prestigious National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune.
Historic Graduation Ceremony
The event marked a milestone moment for 328 cadets who successfully completed their rigorous training at the premier defense institution. The graduation ceremony, held on Saturday at the Khetrapal Parade Ground, saw young cadets transitioning into officers destined to serve across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Among the graduating class, 216 cadets received Bachelor's degrees from the esteemed Jawaharlal Nehru University. The academic breakdown revealed 72 cadets graduating in science streams, 92 in computer science, and 52 in arts disciplines. The international character of the NDA was emphasized by the presence of 18 cadets from friendly foreign countries who also received their degrees during the ceremony.
An additional 112 Navy and Air Force cadets from the BTech stream were awarded three-year course completion certificates. These cadets will complete their final year of specialized training at the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala and the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad before receiving their full BTech degrees.
Technology as Future Warfare Game-Changer
Admiral Tripathi, who reviewed the parade as chief guest, emphasized the transformative role of technology in military operations. "Technology is changing the speed of thoughts, technology is our greatest asset in the future," the Navy Chief stated, as quoted by PTI news agency.
The senior officer expressed confidence in the new generation of officers, describing them as disciplined professionals ready to safeguard national security interests along with those of partner nations. He reinforced the importance of military strength in maintaining peace by quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi: "As our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, the path of peace also goes through power, and you embody that power."
Reflecting on the parade's significance, Admiral Tripathi noted that the event represented "the culmination of three years of rigorous training that have forged you into warriors and capable leaders."
Women Cadets Make Their Mark
A notable aspect of this passing out parade was the visible presence of women cadets, whom the Navy Chief specifically praised in his address. "This is the second women's batch, these cadets passing today, they are standing shoulder to shoulder next to the men's cadets," Admiral Tripathi observed.
The Navy Chief offered valuable guidance to all graduating cadets, emphasizing duty over recognition. "Focus on your duty, not on the award. My message to all is that an award does not define your capability, your duty defines you," he counseled.
This development marks continued progress in gender integration within India's armed forces. Women were first permitted to join the NDA in 2021 following a Supreme Court directive to the Union Public Service Commission, with the inaugural batch of women cadets passing out in May of this year.
The successful graduation of these cadets comes at a crucial time when India is modernizing its defense capabilities and embracing technological advancements across all military branches. The NDA continues to serve as the foundational training ground for future military leaders who will navigate an increasingly complex security landscape dominated by technological innovation.
