Lieutenant Md Zakariyyah Commissioned into Indian Army, Inspires Meitei Pangal Community

Lieutenant Md Zakariyyah, a 23-year-old from Yairipok in Imphal East, has been commissioned into the Indian Army after completing training at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA). He was one of 491 cadets commissioned during the Passing Out Parade at the IMA on December 14, 2025.

The youngest of five brothers, he is the son of Alhaj Md Ashraf Ali, a retired Block Development Officer, and Mumtaz Begum. Commissioned into the Artillery Regiment, Lt Zakariyyah aims to uphold the regiment's traditions and prioritize the welfare of his troops.

His commissioning is viewed as a significant achievement for his family and the Meitei Pangal community, serving as motivation for future generations. Lt Zakariyyah cleared the NDA examination in September 2021, fulfilling a long-held aspiration to serve in the military.