279 cadets, including 15 Afghans, pass out of OTA

Fifteen cadets from Afghanistan were among the 279 cadets commissioned as officers on completion of their training at the Indian Army's Officers Training Academy here today.
General Officer, Commanding-in-Chief of Army's Eastern Command, Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi reviewed the passing out parade in which the cadets took part, an official release said.
The batch comprised 230 men, 33 women and 16 foreign cadets -- 15 from Afghanistan and one cadet from Lesoto, South Africa.
The cadets were commissioned as 'Officers' after completion of the vigorous training at the Academy, it said.
Addressing the cadets, Lt Gen Bakshi urged the newly commissioned officers to comprehend the fine qualities expected from them and constantly endeavour to be fully equipped to meet up the responsibilities and expectations.

Stating that the Indian Army "has a formidable image at home and abroad for its professionalism, patriotism and discipline", he told the officers to "remember the troops you will command are the finest in the world and you must treat them decently and with respect".
Later, he presented the "Sword of Honour" for Best All Round Gentlemen/Lady Cadet to Senior Under Officer Pragun Bali and the "Gold medal" for standing first in the Order of Merit to Battalion cadet Adjutant Vishwaraj Singh.