Dateline Dehradun: The global pandemic is playing spoilsport as the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun gears up for its 146th Regular Course Spring Term, Passing out Parade on the 13th of June 2020. For this is the first time that parents and guardians will not witness their loved ones march against the spectacular backdrop of the Chetwode building of this stellar institution.
As some four hundred Gentlemen Cadets (other than Foreign Cadets from friendly countries) will take that historic last step or antim pagh into the uniformed fraternity and go forward in charting a path of glory. Notably absent shall be their family and guardians, who used to take pictures of their wards and capture this singular moment forever. This time around, they shall be missed.
In a Press Release the IMA says: “In view of prevailing COVID-19 instructions, the parents and dear ones of the Gentlemen cadets shall not be able to participate in Passing Out Parade events as is the tradition.”
The virulent virus has changed things. Since its very inception, the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun has always put its best foot forward in keeping alive its glorious tradition of turning boys into men with proud parents and guardians witnessing the Pass Out Parade. But this is all set to change now.
But IMA hopes that the print and visual media will do their task by stepping in to fill the yawning gap, adding: “It is therefore extremely important that these events are extensively covered in real time for the nation to witness continues professionalism and commitment of the Indian Army despite prevailing crisis. It will also allow parents, kith and kid of the Gentlemen Cadets to get a true feel of the pride and emotional high in witnessing their heroes don ranks of the Indian Army.”
