Guwahati: Manipur has added another name to its list of young achievers in uniform with the commissioning of Md Zakariyyah, a 23-year-old from Yairipok in Imphal East district, as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army.
His induction into the officer cadre has drawn widespread appreciation, particularly within the Meitei Pangal community, which has hailed the achievement as a moment of collective pride.
Zakariyyah earned his commission during the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) on Saturday, December 14, where 491 officer cadets formally joined the Indian Army. The ceremony marked the completion of intensive training that followed his earlier education at the National Defence Academy (NDA), a journey that demanded sustained physical endurance, mental resilience, and leadership development.
The youngest among five siblings, Lt Zakariyyah, hails from Tulihal Mayai Leikai along Heirong Road. He is the son of Alhaj Md Ashraf Ali, a retired Block Development Officer, and Mumtaz Begum. Family members and local residents described his commissioning as a landmark moment for their village and an inspiring example for aspiring youth.
Reflecting on the milestone, the newly commissioned officer described the moment as the realisation of a long-held dream. He said the NDA laid the foundation of discipline and leadership, while the IMA equipped him with the professional skills required to command troops in challenging operational situations. According to him, the demanding training environment strengthened his confidence and sense of responsibility as a future leader.
Lt Zakariyyah has joined the Artillery Regiment, a corps known for its distinguished history and battlefield contributions. Expressing pride in his assignment, he said he intends to uphold the regiment’s traditions and values. He emphasised that his immediate focus would be to understand his men, learn from senior officers, and lead with integrity and example, adding that the welfare and trust of his troops would remain his top priority.
His father recalled that Zakariyyah developed an early inclination towards military life while studying at Sainik School. That ambition took a decisive turn when he cleared the NDA examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission in September 2021. “This is not just a personal achievement for our family, but a proud moment for the entire community,” Ashraf Ali said, expressing hope that his son’s journey would inspire other young people to pursue service in the armed forces.
Lieutenant Md Zakariyyah’s commissioning highlights the impact of perseverance, disciplined education, and focused ambition, underscoring how youth from Manipur continue to contribute to national service with commitment and distinction.