The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee reviewed the Passing Out Parade of the Summer term at the Officers Training Academy, Chennai today (September 10, 2016).

Addressing the Officers, the President said anonerous task awaits them as they go on to don the mantle of great responsibility and authority bestowed upon them by the Constitution of India. They have been through a gruelling one year of training to equip them with the requisite mental and physical skills required to lead troops in extremely challenging conditions. The President told Officers that their honourand integrity is not just theirs: they should always remember there are more than a billion Indian fellow citizens looking up to them every moment with admiration, awe and respect for what they are, the great Institution they serve in and what they are expected to do for this Nation at the time of reckoning.

The President said more than ever before India requires young men and women to take up the challenge of guiding the nation through troubled waters. They need to work tirelessly and selflessly even at the peril of their lives in the service of our Motherland.When they are battling odds that seem insurmountable, they should remember there are a billion hopes pinned on their young and brave shoulders.

The President expressed happiness to see Officer Cadets from friendly countries of Afghanistan, Bhutan, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Lesotho.

This release issued at 1145 hrs.