CME Pune Concludes Young Officer Course: Strengthening Combat Engineering Leadership
PUNE, March 10, 2026 — The prestigious College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, marked the successful completion of its Young Officer (YO) Course today.
This specialized training program is designed to transform junior officers into highly effective Platoon Commanders, equipped to lead engineering operations in high-intensity combat environments. The curriculum focuses on bridging the gap between basic military training and the complex tactical requirements of combat engineering, ensuring that these young leaders are prepared to manage bridging, mine warfare, and defensive fortifications under fire.
During the closing ceremony, Major General Vikram Gulati, Officiating Commandant of CME, delivered the valedictory address. He urged the graduating officers to embody the core values of the Corps of Engineers—resilience, initiative, and a “mission-first” ethos.
Major General Gulati emphasized that the modern battlefield requires combat engineers who are not only technically proficient but also tactically sound and mentally tough.The ceremony also served as a platform to recognize exceptional talent among both domestic and international participants.
Lieutenant Vishal Aggarwal of the 13 Engineer Regiment earned top honors, receiving the prestigious Silver Grenade and the GOC-in-C ARTRAC Award for standing first among Indian Army officers.
Demonstrating the strong defense ties between neighboring nations, Captain Manoj Subedi of the Nepal Army was awarded for achieving the first position among officers from Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs).