Dehradun is gearing up for one of its most prestigious military events as the Indian Military Academy (IMA) prepares to hold its Passing Out Parade (POP) on June 14. This year, the Chief Guest for the grand occasion will be General Vikum Liyanage, the Chief of the Sri Lankan Army, who is expected to arrive in Dehradun on June 13.
The tradition of inviting top military officials from neighbouring nations to the POP reflects India’s broader diplomatic and strategic outreach. In the previous POP held in December 2024, the Chief of the Nepalese Army was the guest of honour.
With growing global concerns over China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean and its strategic foothold in Sri Lanka, the presence of the Sri Lankan Army Chief at the IMA event is being viewed as a significant diplomatic gesture. It underscores India’s intent to strengthen defence ties with its neighbours through soft power and institutional collaboration.
Preparations for the parade are in full swing at the IMA campus, where cadets are undergoing intense drills on the iconic Chetwode Drill Square. The academy is focusing on precision, discipline, and ceremonial excellence as future military officers ready themselves for commissioning.
General Liyanage’s visit also highlights the strong defence partnership between India and Sri Lanka. Over the years, numerous Sri Lankan cadets have been trained at IMA and have gone on to become key officers in their national army. His presence at the POP is expected further to solidify bilateral military cooperation and regional security ties.
