National Defense Academy, 75 Years

The National Defense Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla, Pune, stands as a symbol of excellence in military training, fostering jointmanship among future officers of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Established post-World War II, NDA was envisioned to integrate efforts across services, ensuring a potent joint force against adversaries.

NDA Khadakwasla pioneered combined training for officer cadets of all three services. Its genesis traces back to pre-Independence when a committee proposed the joint services training concept. In 1946, the Indian Military Academy transitioned into the Armed Forces Academy, with the Inter Services Wing inaugurated at Dehradun in 1949.

The foundation stone for NDA was laid in 1949 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, with formal inauguration in 1955. Over its illustrious journey, NDA has contributed significantly to nation-building, producing distinguished leaders not only in the military but also in diverse fields like science, technology, arts, literature, and sports.

NDA’s alumni, numbering over 38,000, including cadets from friendly foreign countries, have demonstrated exceptional gallantry and leadership, with several receiving the nation’s highest military honors. Notably, 2022 marked a historic milestone as female cadets joined NDA, enriching its legacy of excellence.

As NDA celebrates its 75th anniversary in January 2024, it reaffirms its commitment to upholding the highest standards of training and dedication to the nation. The Department of Posts commemorates this milestone with a special postage stamp, honoring NDA’s pivotal role as the bedrock of India’s defense architecture.