Indian Army Commissions 155 Officer Cadets, Celebrates Historic Achievement

The Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai marked a significant milestone on September 6, 2023, as it commissioned a total of 155 officer cadets into the Indian Army. Among these new officers were 25 women, highlighting the growing role of women in the armed forces. The event also featured the successful training completion of nine foreign officer cadets and twelve female foreign cadets from nine allied nations, reinforcing international cooperation in military training.

The ceremony was especially notable for the commissioning of Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal, who became the first woman officer from a distinguished military lineage spanning five generations. She was commissioned into the Army Ordnance Corps, representing a proud tradition of service within her family.

A total of 130 male cadets and 25 female cadets completed their rigorous training at the OTA, embodying the core values of duty, courage, and sacrifice that the Indian Army upholds. The Passing Out Parade was reviewed by Air Force Chief Amar Preet Singh, who praised the precision and discipline displayed during the event.

Honors and Recognitions

During the parade, several cadets were recognized for their exceptional performance. The Sword of Honour and Silver Medal were awarded to ACA Raj Biswas, while AUO Parul Dhadwal received the prestigious OTA Gold Medal for her outstanding achievements. Additionally, BUO Pranjal Dixit was awarded the Bronze Medal.

Lieutenant Dhadwal’s achievement was particularly significant, as she stood first in the order of merit and was also honored with the President’s Gold Medal for her dedication and academic excellence. Hailing from Janauri village in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district, her family legacy in military service is remarkable. Her great-great-grandfather, Subedar Harnam Singh, served with the 74 Punjabis from 1896 to 1924. The lineage continued with her great-grandfather, Major L.S. Dhadwal, and her grandfather, Colonel Daljit Singh Dhadwal, followed by Brigadier Jagat Jamwal.

Currently, her father, Major General K.S. Dhadwal, and brother, Captain Dhananjay Dhadwal, also serve in the Indian Army, making their family a unique representation of military dedication with three serving officers.

A Moment of Tradition and New Beginnings

The parade concluded with a solemn Pipping Ceremony, where the newly commissioned officers adorned their ranks and pledged allegiance to the Constitution of India. As they marched out of OTA Chennai, they embraced the academy’s motto, “Serve with Honour.”

For Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal and her family, this moment represented not only the continuation of a proud military tradition but also the breaking of new ground with her entry as the first woman officer in their distinguished lineage. This event stands as a testament to the evolving roles within the Indian Army and the growing opportunities for women in military service.