Chennai, Nov 20 : A total of 140 Gentlemen cadets of the SSC-112 and 38 Women cadets of the SSC (W)-26 courses were today inducted into the Indian Army after 11 months of rigorous training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA).

They included 16 Gentlemen cadets and nine Women cadets from friendly foreign countries, who also graduated at an impressive Passing Out Parade held at the India’s premier defence training establishment here.

A spectacular military parade on the hallowed Parameshwaran Drill Square at OTA marked the commissioning of the SSC-112 and SSC(W)-26 and equivalent courses.

The immaculate drill of Officer Cadets marching to enthralling martial tunes left the audience spellbound.

It was a proud moment for the officer cadets and their parents, as also the instructors and administrative staff of OTA, who over the last 11 months of integrated training have seen the transformation of these proud men and women into future leaders of the Indian Army.

The Parade was reviewed by Lieutenant General CP Mohanty Vice Chief of Army Staff, who also presented the Sword of Honour and OTA Gold Medal to cadet Siddhanth Sharma, Silver Medal to cadet Dimple Singh Bhati and the Bronze Medal to BCA Muneesh Kumar.

The Reviewing Officer complimented the officer cadets and staff of the OTA on the excellent all round standards achieved.

He exhorted the passing out cadets to always adhere to the core military values of ‘selfless service to the Nation’ and strive for excellence in all their endeavours.(UNI)