Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba speech during NDA POP for 132 course

Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba who was the reviewing officer during NDA POP for 132 course on Tuesday delivered an inspiring speech. 312 cadets graduated from the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune. Here are the excerpts

Training at the Academy

Ladies and Gentlemen, there is an old saying in the military that- when the situation gets tough, we do not rise to the level of our expectations; we fall to the level of our training. It is training that holds us in good stead
as we execute our missions.

The ab-initio training that you cadets have completed is the very foundation upon which the rest of your careers will be built. Academic knowledge, weapon training, drill, swimming and physical fitness are the basic skills that will be required throughout your career.

In addition, there are a number of valuable lessons that NDA has imparted. Chief among these values is the understanding that discipline, professionalism, courage and camaraderie are invaluable to the ‘Profession of Arms’.

I am confident that each and every one of you will enshrine these values in your heart and revisit them frequently through your career.

Advice for Passing Out Course

Cadets of the 132 nd Course! On this solemn occasion, I would like to draw your attention to a few fundamental aspects of the military way of life.

First is- the primacy of the Nation and the Services. All of you have pledged your life to the selfless service of our nation. It is, therefore, incumbent upon you to serve with honour, dignity and commitment. It is important to remember that no effort by you would be too small and no sacrifice too great in serving our glorious nation.

Throughout your training, you have been guided by the motto of ‘SEVA PARMO DHARMA’ – ‘Service Before Self’. This simple yet profound principle has defined the leadership of our Armed Forces over several decades. It is now your turn to carry this legacy forward.

The second aspect is leadership by example. Your superiors as well as subordinates will judge you through your conduct. As you add stars and stripes on your shoulders, remember to clothe yourself with humility. This is essential to create a bond of unity in your teams.

Unquestioned obedience does not stem from superiority of rank or positions of power but by demonstrated commitment, honesty of purpose and willingness to ‘walk the talk’.

The third aspect is courage which includes both aspects of physical valour as well as courage of conviction. Physical courage should be demonstrated and be evident in all your actions on the field. You must develop the wisdom to clearly differentiate between right and wrong and imbibe the strength of character that empowers you to stand by your convictions, come what may.

The confidence of holding your ground with conviction depends upon the next aspect, which is professionalism. This professionalism will give you confidence in your interactions as well as stature within your respective services.
The last aspect that will serve you well in your challenging and adventurous journey ahead is developing a positive attitude. It is this single attribute that will decide the bonhomie, trust and respect that you will inspire.

As you step out of this premier establishment, bear in mind that it will be your professionalism, discipline, motivation, character, courage and attitude that will determine your success as an officer and a leader.

The Path Ahead

After a few weeks of a well-deserved break, you will be embarking on a new voyage at your respective Service training establishments. It is during this phase that professional knowledge will be further ingrained in you. This phase demands single minded devotion to duty and sustained focus on acquiring core professional skills.

Your training tasks will get tougher, the margins of error will shrink, and your training here onwards will demand more of your personal commitment. I, therefore, urge all of you to be conscious of your roots here and resolve to be the best professionals in your respective Services.

Cherish the true spirit of jointness that has been instilled in all of you at the National Defence Academy. Remember, no single service can win a war on its own.

Message for Foreign Cadets

Before I conclude, I would like to make a special mention of the Cadets from our friendly foreign countries. My heartiest congratulations to you all for completing your training with flying colours. I am certain that as you step outside the portals of this Academy, you would carry a positive impression of India and her Armed Forces. I am
sanguine that you will do your alma matter proud when you return to your nations. I wish you great success in your careers.

Concluding Remarks

Cadets of the passing out course, as you eagerly await to march to the tune of ‘Auld Lang Syne’, I would like to once again congratulate you on successful culmination of your training. I also take this opportunity to congratulate all award winners for their distinguished performance and also to the Quebec Squadron for winning the

Champion’s Banner.

I wish each one of you good luck, success and glory in every endeavour.

Jai Hind.