Manipur witnessed a proud moment as Md Zakariyyah, a 23-year-old youth from Yairipok in Imphal East district, was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army. His commissioning has brought joy not only to his family but also to the Meitei Pangal community across the state. Lt Md Zakariyyah was among 491 cadets who were commissioned into the Indian Army during the Passing Out Parade held at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) on December 14. The ceremony marked the successful completion of years of tough military training at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the IMA. The young officer is the youngest of five brothers. He is the son of Alhaj Md Ashraf Ali, a retired Block Development Officer, and Mumtaz Begum.
The family resides at Tulihal Mayai Leikai along Heirong Road. Relatives, villagers, and community members have described his achievement as a matter of great pride for Yairipok and the wider Meitei Pangal society. Speaking about his journey, Lt Zakariyyah said joining the Indian Army was a dream he had carried since his early years. He described the moment of commissioning as both an honour and a serious responsibility. He said his time at the NDA helped shape his discipline, leadership skills, and character, while the training at the IMA prepared him for real-life challenges as an officer. “The training was physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding, but it helped me grow into a confident and responsible officer,” he said.
Lt Zakariyyah has been commissioned into the Artillery Regiment. He expressed pride in joining a regiment known for its long history, courage, and sacrifice. He said his focus would now be on learning from senior officers, understanding his troops, and leading them with honesty and care. “My priority will always be to build trust with my men and look after their welfare,” he said. His father, Alhaj Md Ashraf Ali, said the achievement was a proud day for the entire family and the community. He recalled that his son developed an interest in the armed forces while studying at Sainik School. Later, Lt Zakariyyah cleared the NDA examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission in September 2021, which opened the door to his military career.
