Reminding new graduates of the National Defence Academy in Pune that the protection of the country sometimes demands the "ultimate price", Navy Chief Admiral Arun Prakash Wednesday said the armed forces offer exciting prospects with many opportunities.
Addressing the passing out parade of the NDA's 110th course after reviewing the parade, he said, "As I approach the end of my innings, I look back at four decades in uniform and can say that the promise held out to me was redeemed in full. Today, the same prospect lies before you -- only it is far more exciting.
"The defence of the motherland sometimes demands the ultimate price. I am confident that you will repay your debt to the nation with your dedication, hard work and patriotism.
"A special word of congratulations for the cadets from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Bhutan," he said.
Prakash said the NDA helps forge bonds besides acquiring knowledge of the other two services, which will be a great asset. "Preserve and cherish them for they will be valuable assets in the days of inter-services cooperation," he said.
Earlier, 825 cadets in 14 contingents, all dressed in white, took part in the parade.
Due to inclement weather, a flypast by Su-30 and Jaguar jets and an aerobatic display by the Surya Kiran team could not be held. However, three Super Dimona gliders of the NDA flew over the ground even as the academy cadet captain saluted the reviewing officer.
Pallawa Jha was awarded the President's gold medal, Satish Kumar the silver medal and P S Chiniwar the bronze medal for being toppers in the course. The Golf Squadron, which won the coveted overall champion squadron title, received the Chief of Staff's Banner.