PASSING OUT PARADE OF 02/25 BATCH OF TRAINEES AT INS CHILKA
The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch was held at INS Chilka on 08 Jan 2026, marking the successful culmination of 16 weeks of ab-initio training. The trainees passed out in an impressive post-sunset ceremonial parade, symbolising their transformation into disciplined, resilient, and combat-ready Naval professionals. The passing-out batch of 2,172 trainees comprised 2,103 Agniveers, including 113 women Agniveers, 270 SSR (Medical Assistants), 44 Sports entry personnel of the Indian Navy, and 295 Naviks of the Indian Coast Guard.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, was the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer of the parade. Commodore B Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, was the Conducting Officer. The ceremony was attended by distinguished veterans, eminent sports personalities, senior naval officers, other dignitaries, and family members of the passing-out trainees.
The parade showcased high standards of drill, discipline, and professionalism attained by the trainees. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and gender neutrality in operational roles.
Addressing the parade, the FOCinC (South) congratulated the trainees on the successful completion of their training. He impressed upon them to hone their professional skills and be technologically aware, while imbibing the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage. He directed the trainees to uphold the honour of the Nation while charting their course with courage and determination. He expressed his appreciation to the parents of Agniveers, acknowledging their contribution to the Nation. The Chief Guest complimented Team Chilka for their relentless efforts and crucial role in shaping the transformation of the Navy and the nation.
The Chief Guest awarded medals and trophies to meritorious Agniveers. Sashi B. Kenchavagol and Jatin Mishra were awarded the Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy and Gold Medal for Best Agniveer (SSR) and Best Agniveer (MR), respectively. Anita Yadav received the Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer in overall order of merit. Keshav Suryavanshi and Sonendra were adjudged Best Navik (GD) and Best Navik (DB), respectively.
Earlier, during the Valedictory Function, the Overall Championship Trophy was awarded to Kharavela Division, while Ashok Division secured the Runners-Up position. The occasion also witnessed the unveiling of the second edition of Ankur 2025, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka. The magazine showcases the experiences and the transformative journey of Agniveers.
