2,172 trainees successfully passed out from INS Chilka on Thursday, following the completion of 16 weeks of ab-initio training, marking an important milestone in their journey as naval professionals.
The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch was held in an impressive post-sunset ceremonial setting, symbolising the transformation of the trainees into disciplined, resilient and combat-ready personnel. The batch comprised 2,172 trainees, including 2,103 Agniveers – among them 113 women Agniveers – along with 270 Senior Secondary Recruits (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, reviewed the parade as the Chief Guest. Commodore B. Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, served as the Conducting Officer. The ceremony was attended by senior naval officers, veterans, eminent sports personalities, other dignitaries, and family members of the passing-out trainees.
The parade reflected the high standards of drill, discipline and professionalism achieved during training. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts highlighted the Indian Navy’s continued emphasis on inclusivity and gender neutrality in operational roles.
Addressing the trainees, Vice Admiral Saxena congratulated them on the successful completion of their training and urged them to continuously hone their professional skills while remaining technologically adept. Emphasising the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage, he called upon the trainees to uphold the honour of the nation with determination and integrity. He also acknowledged the contribution of the parents of Agniveers and commended Team INS Chilka for its role in shaping the future of the Navy and the nation.
During the ceremony, medals and trophies were awarded to outstanding performers. Sashi B. Kenchavagol and Jatin Mishra received the Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy and Gold Medal for Best Agniveer (SSR) and Best Agniveer (MR), respectively. Anita Yadav was awarded the Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer in the overall order of merit. Keshav Suryavanshi and Sonendra were adjudged Best Navik (General Duty) and Best Navik (Domestic Branch), respectively.
Earlier, at the valedictory function, Kharavela Division was awarded the Overall Championship Trophy, while Ashok Division emerged as the runners-up. The occasion also marked the unveiling of the second edition of Ankur 2025, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka, which chronicles the experiences and transformative journey of the Agniveers.
