Himanshu Kumar Lall,Tribune News Service,Dehradun, December 12

Out of 50 Foreign Gentleman Cadets (FGCs), who participated in the passing-out parade, the maximum number of them (31) were from Afghanistan, followed by Tajikistan (10). Six FGCs were from Maldives, two from Sri Lanka and one from Nepal.Nabin Shrestha from Nepal was adjudged the best cadet. Anwesh Gurung from Nepal said training helps in the overall development of a cadet. “Rigorous training, sports, drill and map-reading, extra-curricular activities shape the personality of an individual,” he added.Jawad Ehsani from Afghanistan said the training at the IMA would help them neutralise terrorists in their country. He would share warfare techniques and counter-insurgency skills with his fellow officers when he joins the Afghan army. Similar feelings were expressed by cadet Hadir Rasa from Afghanistan.FGC Adam Naseem from Maldives said the training schedule of the IMA for transforming young men to vibrant Army officers was the best in the world. Every cadet was mentally and physically groomed during the pre-commission training.According to Naseem, the life of a Gentleman Cadet at the IMA was a tough one but it helped us to cope up with challenges in life.FGC Dima from Tajikistan said the training at the IMA was scientifically-evolved and special focus was laid on the overall development of a cadet. He said the pre-commission training helps to improve cadets’ strength, endurance and swiftness.It may be recalled that 1,863 FGCs have passed out from the portals of the IMA so far.