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Indian Army the best in the world: Fernandes

By C. K. Chandramohan

DEHRA DUN JUNE 14. The Defence Minister, George Fernandes, today called upon the Gentlemen Cadets of the Indian Military Academy here to hold high the rich traditions laid down by seniors over the decades.

Reviewing an impressive passing-out-parade at the Academy, Mr. Fernandes wanted the boys to make it real big in the days to come as they would be commanding the best of men and handling the most sophisticated equipment. "The Indian army is known worldwide for excellence and the youngsters becoming officers today should endeavour to better upon the precedents set by the seniors over time.''

The Defence Minister evoked loud applause from the audience as he described the Indian army as the best in the world.

The great philosophy of secularism was best practiced in the army, he said.

Mr. Fernandes wanted all Indians to join hands to make India stronger and more prosperous in the coming years so that the current century came to be known as the era of the Indians.

In all 431 Gentlemen Cadets, including 10 from Bhutan, three from Maldives and one from Lesotho proudly marched out of the portals of this "cradle of warriors" to become officers.

Those were memorable moments as Mr. Fernandes gave away the Sword of Honour awarded to the best all round performer from the Regular Course to Battalion Under Officer, Antony Joseph.

The Gold Medal for standing first in order of merit in the Regular Course went to Academy Cadet Adjutant, Raj Singh Duhan, and the Silver Medal went to Battalion Cadet Adjutant, Ajit Khatri. The Silver Medal for standing first in order of merit in the Technical Graduates' Course went to Junior Under Officer, Rajinder Singh.

The Silver Medal for standing first in order of merit in the Technical Entry Scheme was awarded to Wing Cadet Adjutant, Gagan Singh.

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