CHENNAI: The Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai's St Thomas Mount witnessed a grand passing out parade on Saturday, marking the commissioning of 169 new military officers, including 24 women.

This special event celebrated the completion of their rigorous training, preparing them to serve the nation.

Lieutenant General Johnson P Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), was the reviewing officer for the Parade.

A total of 169 officer cadets with 133 men, 24 women, 12 from five foreign countries were commissioned into various Arms and Services of the Indian Army, embodying the spirit of duty and sacrifice.

Additionally, five Foreign Officer Cadets and seven Foreign Officer Cadets (Women) from five Friendly Foreign Countries successfully completed their training, fostering bonds of camaraderie and cooperation across international borders.

The drill of Officer Cadets marched to martial tunes left the audience spellbound.

Lieutenant Karan Trivedi said, "Today, I've been commissioned into the Parachute Regiment. First of all, I want to thank all the instructors here at the academy who have trained and guided me to become a competent leader and officer. A special thanks to my parents, who are here today to witness this passing-out parade. Their love and upbringing have played a huge role in making me who I am today.

"I was born and raised in a village, and I had no knowledge about the armed forces. But over time, I met some people who helped me understand what it means to be an officer and how to join the armed forces. It is through the guidance of many people that I have reached this point, and I'm deeply grateful to each and every one of them," Trivdedi said.

The Passing Out Parade was reviewed by Lieutenant General Mathew Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Johnson P Ati . The Reviewing Officer, in his address, lauded the Officer Cadets and OTA staff for their exemplary achievements, exhorting the newly commissioned officers to uphold the cardinal military values of 'Selfless Service to the Nation' and steadfast pursuit of excellence in all endeavours.

Following the parade, the Pipping Ceremony symbolized a solemn vow as newly commissioned officers, adorned with the gleaming insignia on their shoulders, pledged allegiance to the Constitution of India and committed to safeguard the nation at all costs.