Manipur marked a moment of pride on December 14 as 23-year-old Md Zakariyyah from Yairipok in Imphal East district was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army, bringing recognition to both the state and the Meitei Pangal community. The young officer earned his commission after completing his training at the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy.
Lieutenant Zakariyyah was part of a batch of 491 cadets who formally joined the Indian Army during the Passing Out Parade at the IMA, an event that signified the successful completion of years of demanding military preparation. The ceremony reflected the discipline, resilience and leadership cultivated during the cadets’ training journey.
The youngest of five brothers, Lt Zakariyyah is the son of Alhaj Md Ashraf Ali, a retired Block Development Officer, and Mumtaz Begum. The family resides at Tulihal Mayai Leikai on Heirong Road. His commissioning has been widely celebrated as a milestone for his family, his locality and the broader Meitei Pangal community in Manipur.
Calling the occasion the realisation of a long-cherished dream, Lt Zakariyyah said joining the Indian Army was both an honour and a serious responsibility. He acknowledged the role of the NDA in shaping his discipline and leadership qualities, while crediting the IMA for preparing him to command troops in challenging operational conditions. He said the training was rigorous in every sense and helped mould him into a confident and accountable officer.
Commissioned into the Artillery Regiment, Lt Zakariyyah expressed pride in becoming part of a corps known for its distinguished history and sacrifices. He said his focus would be on learning from senior officers, understanding the needs of his soldiers and leading through example, adding that earning the trust of his men and ensuring their welfare would be his foremost duty.
His father described the commissioning as a deeply emotional moment for the family and the community at large. He recalled that his son’s aspiration to serve in uniform began during his schooling at Sainik School, which later led him to clear the UPSC-conducted NDA examination in September 2021. He said his son’s achievement would inspire young people from the Meitei Pangal community to pursue service to the nation.
Lieutenant Md Zakariyyah’s journey from Yairipok to the ranks of the Indian Army stands as a reflection of perseverance, disciplined education and commitment, highlighting the potential of Manipur’s youth to serve the country with distinction.
