- I am
delighted to be here this morning to review the passing out parade of the
134th course of the National Defence Academy. I must congratulate the
cadets on their disciplined drill and perfect turn out. This is a sight to
behold – a sight that reflects the glory and pride of our nation. As the
Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, this is a moment of immense
satisfaction for me. The Armed Forces are a symbol of excellence and
dedication for the entire country. This parade comprises cadets from all
parts of India and from a variety of communities. Its harmony speaks for
our essential unity as much as for our pluralism as a society.
- A
soldier or an officer in uniform, irrespective of whether he or she is
from the Army, the Navy or the Air Force, evokes admiration and trust
everywhere in the country. If a fellow citizen sees a member of the Armed
Forces at a railway station or a market or at any other place, there is an
immediate emotion of pride and reassurance. This is due to the
unparalleled and unquestioning service to the nation in times of war and
peace, on the border or within the country during a natural calamity. The
Armed Forces represent the best of the Indian ethos. I am confident that
these values have been imbibed by the cadets who are graduating today.
- I have
strongly identified with the Armed Forces ever since I became the
President of India. My first visit outside Delhi after taking office was
to Ladakh, to be with brave soldiers on a distant frontier. Subsequent
travels have taken me to Air Force stations and naval bases. A few weeks
ago I was privileged to fly to the Siachen Glacier. Experiencing the tough
conditions there, and seeing the grit and determination of the gallant
soldiers and officers posted there, made me very proud. With smiling faces
and nerves of steel, they have kept the National Flag high. All of you
here will be carrying forward that remarkable legacy.
- The
National Defence Academy is more than just a training facility. It is the
crucible of valour and bravery. The fact that among its alumni are those
who have been decorated with gallantry awards such as the Param Vir
Chakra, the Ashok Chakra, the Maha Vir Chakra, the Shaurya Chakra and
other honours bears testimony to this. The NDA has inculcated a resolve
and a spirit of national service in generations of cadets and generations
of officers. It is because of this heritage that in December 1978, my
predecessor, President Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, conferred the President’s
Colours on the NDA.
- Cadets,
as you cross the quarterdeck today, do remember that you owe a debt of
gratitude to your parents and families who have sacrificed so much to
support you. And you owe your professional credo to the NDA that has
groomed you into leaders. In particular, let us cherish the late Subedar
Major Rajeev Kumar Rai, a veteran of operational duties in Siachen, Jammu
and Kashmir and the Northeast, who was the Subedar Major Drill of the NDA
and who trained you for this ceremony. Unfortunately, he passed away only
a few days ago. While expressing condolences to his family and colleagues,
let his memory inspire you to greater heights.
- You
should also draw courage from the NDA motto of “Seva Paramo Dharma”. Hold
this motto in your heart and act it out in deed. These three words are
your personal code of ethics. My best wishes to all of you and
congratulations to the cadets of the Kilo Squadron for winning the banner.
Cadets
- The
Armed Forces are not merely about doing a job – they are about answering a
calling. And this is a calling for a rare breed of human beings. Today,
you become role models for our young people, guarantors of our peace and
prosperity, and guardians of our nation – in the snow-capped mountains and
under the desert sun, in the stormy seas and in the cloudy but boundless
skies.
- May
success and victory mark every step! May you prove worthy successors to
the unflinching and fearless officers who have preceded you! May the force
be with you!
Jai Hind!
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