On the morning of 14th June 2025, under the dignified gaze of the Chetwode Building at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), a young officer marched ahead of his peers, receiving the coveted Sword of Honour — the highest accolade bestowed upon a cadet for overall excellence during training. That officer was Lieutenant Anni Nehra, Academy Cadet Adjutant of the IMA’s Spring Term 2025.
But Lieutenant Nehra’s story is not just about medals and glory — it’s about resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of a soldier who nearly gave up, yet chose to rise.
A Journey Rooted in Service and Sacrifice
Anni Nehra hails from a proud military lineage. The son of retired Havildar Devinder Nehra, he grew up listening to stories of courage and camaraderie, deeply inspired by both his father and grandfather’s service to the nation. This legacy would later fuel his own ambitions — not just to serve, but to excel.
But the path was anything but easy.
From Doubt to Determination: The Military School Years
As a young boy at Military School Belgaum, Anni faced adversity that shook his confidence. The demanding routine, physical stress, and emotional challenges often overwhelmed him. In one pivotal moment, he made a call home, telling his father he wanted to quit.
It was that very moment of uncertainty that shaped his future. His father, instead of offering an easy way out, encouraged him to persevere. That decision — to stay — changed everything.
NDA: Forging Leadership at the National Defence Academy
Anni Nehra joined the 146th Course of the National Defence Academy in June 2021. Over the next three years, he evolved into a confident and competent leader. At NDA, he earned the prestigious appointment of Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) — a role demanding both leadership and responsibility.
His relentless efforts culminated in the President’s Bronze Medal for standing third in the overall order of merit at NDA’s Passing Out Parade in May 2024. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the nation’s finest, his transformation from a struggling schoolboy to a medalist complete — yet his journey was far from over.
Indian Military Academy: Reaching the Summit
Post-NDA, Anni joined the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun — where cadets receive the final leg of their pre-commissioning training. His excellence didn’t go unnoticed. He was appointed as the Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA), one of the most prestigious leadership roles at IMA.
At the IMA’s Spring Term 2025 Passing Out Parade, Lieutenant Nehra achieved what every Gentleman Cadet dreams of — he was awarded the Sword of Honour, presented to the best all-round cadet. In addition, he received the Silver Medal for standing second in the overall order of merit.
Legacy of Inspiration
Lieutenant Anni Nehra’s story is not just a tale of medals and ranks; it is a shining example of what courage, mentorship, and self-belief can achieve. From a small-town boy on the verge of quitting, to the most celebrated cadet of IMA’s Spring Term 2025 — his journey reflects the very ethos of the Indian Armed Forces.
As he steps into the Indian Army as a commissioned officer, he carries not just his family’s legacy, but the hopes of every young Indian who dares to dream, falters, and rises again.
Lieutenant Anni Nehra, we salute you.
May your sword of honour shine as a beacon for the leaders of tomorrow.
