After NDA, Covid-19 To Keep Out Proud Parents Of Cadets From Passing Out Parade At Indian Military Academy

The passing out parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun (Uttarakhand) will not see the participation of the parents of the gentlemen cadets for the first time in history. Owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, IMA has decided to not invite parents to the POP scheduled for June 13, this report says.

Lt Colonel Amit Dagar, PRO, IMA has been quoted saying in the report, "In the passing out parade of gentleman cadets parents will not be participating. The decision is taken by IMA administration in the light of coronavirus pandemic."

The effect of Covid-19 pandemic was seen at the passing out ceremony of 300 cadets at the National Defence Academy (NDA). Reports say that the ceremony "had less than the usual sparkle" but had its military spirit intact.

The proud parents of the cadets were missing at the ceremony owing to the lockdown and the medals were awarded without any physical contact.

This report quotes officials as saying, "While keeping the sentiment and symbolism of the lifetime occasion for the cadets fully intact, the military procedures were improvised and adapted to ensure ‘do gaj ki doori’, the mandated social distancing."

Also missing from the ceremony at NDA were serving and veteran military personalities.

The IMA POP is expected to get real time coverage. This report mentions that "the number of those who will join the parade will be 'completely ascertained in a few days along with the decision of whom to invite as the reviewing officer of POP.'

Efforts will be made to ensure "that the event is covered as much as possible in real time". This would be done to make the parents and family members witness the proud moments of their dear ones.