Pune (NVI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while reiterating the Government’s commitment to protect the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, today stressed the need to remain prepared to deal with terrorism and new threats of the 21st century, including cyber-threats and hate-filled ideologies.
“India has always believed in building peaceful and friendly relations with all countries. We have no extra-territorial ambitions and we do not interfere in the affairs of any other country. But if someone tries to disturb peace in our country, we will give a befitting reply,” the Minister said.
The Defence Minster Rajnath Singh reviewed the Passing Out Parade of 284 cadets, who graduated from the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) here.
The cadets included 188 Army, 38 Naval, 37 Air Force and 20 cadets from friendly foreign countries of Bhutan, Tajikistan, Maldives, Vietnam, Mauritius, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, an official statement said.
He complimented the cadets for their immaculate turnout and excellent drill movements and congratulated the parents of the passing out cadets and appreciated their decision of sending their children to the Armed Forces.
The grit and grime of the National Defence Academy makes cadets tough to face any challenge in their military career ahead, he said. Adding “professionalism can only be attained by discipline which these cadets have imbibed”.
He credited the jointness of all the forces including military and paramilitary to achieve this goal saying that the credit of India’s strong fight against terrorism goes to the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces as well as Police.
“It is remarkable how the officers in uniform provide humanitarian assistance during natural calamities and help their brothers and sisters in distress without a thought for their own safety,” he told the cadets.
At the Passing Out Parade, the President’s Gold medal was awarded to Academy Cadet Captain Majji Giridhar for being first in overall order of merit.
The President’s Silver medal was awarded to Battalion cadet captain Kushagra Mishra while battalion cadet captain NK Vishwakarma won the President’s Bronze medal. ‘Mike’ Squadron bagged the Chief of Staff banner for being the champion squadron which was presented during the parade.
