The National Defence Academy at Pune’s Khadakwasla will host its 150th Passing Out Parade today, marking a defining moment in the institution’s 77-year history as India’s premier tri-services military academy. General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, will review the parade as the Reviewing Officer at the Khetarpal Parade Ground, where generations of cadets have marched before stepping into military service.
The milestone ceremony comes at a time when India is expanding its defence preparedness, modernising its armed forces and witnessing growing interest among young aspirants seeking careers in national security. The NDA’s 150th course represents not merely another graduating batch but the continuation of an institution that has shaped the leadership structure of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force since Independence.
For decades, the academy has trained officers who later commanded strategic military operations, led troops during conflict and occupied some of the highest positions in India’s defence establishment. The NDA remains one of the few institutions in the world where cadets of all three services train together from the beginning of their military journey, strengthening coordination and joint operational thinking at an early stage.
The Khetarpal Parade Ground itself carries deep historical symbolism. Named after Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the Param Vir Chakra awardee who lost his life during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the ground represents the sacrifice and courage associated with military service. Every Passing Out Parade at Khadakwasla reinforces that legacy of discipline, endurance and national duty.
An Institution Built on Sacrifice and Strategic Vision
Established shortly after Independence, the NDA emerged as a critical pillar of India’s long-term military planning. Over the years, the academy evolved alongside the country’s changing security landscape. From preparing officers during conventional warfare eras to adapting to modern challenges involving drones, cyber warfare and hybrid conflict, the institution has consistently aligned itself with India’s evolving defence priorities.
The academy’s reputation has also grown because of the countless officers who laid down their lives while serving the nation. Its alumni include decorated war heroes, military strategists and senior commanders who played key roles during some of India’s most difficult security crises.
The significance of the 150th Passing Out Parade also coincides with the opening of registrations for the NDA and Naval Academy Examination 2, 2026, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. The recruitment process has already begun, offering a new generation of aspirants the opportunity to enter one of the country’s most respected military institutions.
UPSC Opens Registration for NDA & NA Examination 2, 2026
Candidates can now submit their applications online through the official UPSC website. The last date for registration is June 9, 2026, while the examination is scheduled to be conducted on September 13 across multiple centres nationwide.
Applicants must create an account using a mobile number and email ID before filling in personal, educational and communication details. Candidates are also required to upload photographs and supporting documents before completing the online fee payment process. After submission, applicants can download the confirmation page for future reference.
General category candidates must pay an application fee of Rs 100. However, SC, ST and female candidates, along with wards of JCOs, NCOs and ORs, are exempted from payment. UPSC has enabled online payment through debit card, credit card, UPI and net banking facilities.
The commission has also activated helpdesk support for candidates facing registration-related issues. Applicants can contact UPSC through phone numbers 1124041001 and 01140303444 or send queries via email at upscsoap@nic.in during working days between 10 am and 5 pm until June 9.
As the NDA prepares for its 150th Passing Out Parade, the institution stands at the intersection of legacy and transition. While one batch of cadets prepares to step into active military life, another generation has already begun its journey towards joining the armed forces. At Khadakwasla, the cycle of service, sacrifice and leadership continues uninterrupted.