For Sajal Matroja of Meerut, the Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) here on Saturday turned out to be a red-letter day.
As he took the “final step” through the portals of the historic Chetwode building, Matroja not only became a proud officer of the Indian Army but also won the sword of honour for his overall outstanding performance.
“These are momentous moments of my life,” Matroja said, exulting in joy as he hugged his parents with tears trickling over his cheeks.
Pallawa Jha, who also passed out of the IMA, received the “President Gold Medal” for performing exceptionally well. Even when Jha was undergoing training at IMA, he served as Academy Cadet Adjutant. “Now I look forward to serve my country with all my ability and courage,” said Jha.
Just like Matroja and Jha, all the newly commissioned officers were seen expressing their joy.

649 cadets
In all 649 cadets, the largest single batch, passed out of the IMA in the smartly turned out parade.
Chief of Naval Staff Sureesh Mehta reviewed the parade and took salute from the cadets who marched in files at Drill Square set against the historic Chetwode building.
Three helicopters of the Army Aviation Corps flew over the parade and showered petals on the cadets.
Twenty-four cadets from friendly nations like Tajikistan, Bhutan and Mauritius also passed out of the IMA, which is celebrating its platinum jubilee this year.
The hallmark of the function was a motorcycle expedition to Siachen, the highest military post in the world, which was flagged off by Admiral Mehta.
Five officers and 16 cadets of the IMA are participating in the expedition.
Immediately after the Passing Out Parades, the cadets gathered for the pipping ceremony after taking the final step, which formally made them as officers of the Indian Army.
Later, the cadets displayed their joy by tossing their caps in the air and hugging each other.