Centenary of the Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehradun

Honouring 100 Years of Legacy

The Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) was founded on 13 March 1922 with the vision of providing structured military training to young boys of Indian domicile aspiring to serve as officers in the Armed Forces. Its establishment was driven by the political movement for the Indianisation of military leadership, ensuring that talented and deserving Indian youth were prepared to take on roles of command and responsibility.

The Founding Years

Originally named the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College (PWRIMC), the institution was inaugurated by Prince Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor, on 13 March 1922. After completing their training, cadets were sent to pre-commission academies in the United Kingdom such as the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and RAF Cranwell, where they further honed their skills before joining the Defence Services.

Role and Reach

RIMC is today recognized as an Inter-Service Category ‘A’ establishment, administered by the Army Training Command, Shimla. It serves as a feeder institution to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Naval Academy, while also preparing cadets for entry into the Armed Forces through other routes. With cadets selected from every corner of the country, the College reflects a true all-India character, ensuring representation from all states and most union territories.

RIMC’s mission has always been to train, educate, and mould cadets so that a career in the Armed Forces becomes their natural calling. Each graduate emerges as a disciplined, motivated, and capable leader ready to serve the nation.

Glorious Contributions and Gallantry

The alumni of RIMC, fondly known as Rimcollians, have etched their names in history through their courage and leadership. They have been recipients of some of the highest gallantry and service awards of pre- and post-independent India.

• Lt Gen B Bhagat was awarded the Victoria Cross.
• Maj Somnath Sharma, another illustrious alumnus, became the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
• Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, one of India’s most celebrated military leaders and a distinguished Rimcollian, was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.

Beyond these, Rimcollians have been decorated with Orders of the British Empire, Military Crosses, Distinguished Flying Crosses, Vir Chakras, Yudh Seva Medals, Shaurya Chakras, Sena/Naou Sena/Vayu Sena Medals, and many more honours.

RIMC’s crowning glory lies in the fact that it has produced four Chiefs of the Indian Army, two Chiefs of the Indian Air Force, as well as senior leaders in Pakistan, including two Chiefs of Air Staff and a Commander-in-Chief of the Army.

As of March 2021, over 4,274 cadets have graduated from RIMC, with more than 2,600 proudly serving in the Indian Armed Forces. Their presence across borders has not only shaped military leadership but has also fostered bonds of understanding and nation-building.

Legacy of Leadership

For a century, RIMC has dedicated itself to producing leaders of mettle and resolve. Its alumni have shaped the Indian Armed Forces, guiding the nation through wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations with distinction. The College stands as a symbol of discipline, honour, and service to the nation.

The Centenary Stamp

On the occasion of its 100th anniversary, the Department of Posts is proud to issue the Rashtriya Indian Military College Centenary Stamp. This commemorative postage stamp celebrates not only the historic journey of RIMC but also the enduring legacy of its alumni, who continue to serve the nation with valour and dedication.