NewzVille Desk
In a pleasant homecoming, Lieutenant General Rodrigo revisited the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, where he was commissioned in December 1990 as part of the 87th Course. Now the Commander of his nation’s Army, he returned as the Reviewing Officer for the Passing Out Parade, witnessing the commissioning of a new generation of officers including foreign cadets from Sri Lanka.
The event was deeply symbolic, with two Sri Lankan officer cadets, including RMNL Rathnayake, son of Brigadier RMSP Rathnayake, passing out as commissioned officers. Their commissioning brings the total number of Sri Lankan Army officers commissioned from IMA to 296, highlighting India’s continued role in shaping the leadership of friendly foreign forces.
During his address to the cadets, the General officer expressed deep honour in reviewing the Passing Out Parade at IMA, calling it a profoundly emotional homecoming. Reflecting on his own journey, he reminded the cadets that commissioning into the armed forces is not just about earning a rank, but embracing a lifelong way of service, responsibility, and leadership.
He lauded award winners and acknowledged foreign cadets as ambassadors of IMA’s ethos, reinforcing that its values transcend borders. He also called upon the young officers to lead with wisdom, uphold justice, and contribute fearlessly to the legacy of IMA, invoking Field Marshal Manekshaw’s enduring words: “Be truthful, be honest, be fearless.”
LG Rodrigo concluded a meaningful four-day official visit to India from 11-14 June 2025, reinforcing the longstanding and robust military ties between the two Armies.
At any given time, approximately 700 Sri Lankan Army personnel are undergoing training at various Indian Army establishments, making Sri Lanka Army the largest foreign participant in Indian military training programmes.
