The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch of trainees was held at INS Chilka on 8 January 2026, marking the successful culmination of 16 weeks of ab-initio training. Conducted as an impressive post-sunset ceremonial parade, the event symbolised the transformation of trainees into disciplined, resilient, and combat-ready naval professionals.
The passing-out batch comprised 2,172 trainees, including 2,103 Agniveers (among them 113 women Agniveers), 270 Sailors (SSR – Medical Assistants), 44 Sports Entry personnel of the Indian Navy, and 295 Naviks of the Indian Coast Guard.
Distinguished Leadership and Ceremony
The parade was reviewed by Sameer Saxena, Vice Admiral and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOCinC), Southern Naval Command, who was the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer. B Deepak Aneel, Commodore and Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, served as the Conducting Officer of the parade.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished veterans, eminent sports personalities, senior naval officers, other dignitaries, and family members of the passing-out trainees.
Showcasing Excellence, Discipline and Inclusivity
The parade showcased the high standards of drill, discipline, and professionalism attained by the trainees during their rigorous training. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and gender neutrality in operational roles.
Address to the Trainees
Addressing the parade, the FOCinC (South) congratulated the trainees on the successful completion of their training. He urged them to continuously hone their professional skills, remain technologically adept, and imbibe the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour, and Courage. Emphasising their responsibility to the nation, he exhorted the trainees to uphold national honour while charting their professional journeys with courage and determination.
He also expressed appreciation to the parents of the Agniveers, acknowledging their vital contribution to the nation, and commended Team Chilka for its relentless efforts and pivotal role in shaping the transformation of both the Navy and the nation.
Awards and Achievements
During the ceremony, the Chief Guest awarded medals and trophies to meritorious trainees:
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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.
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Anita Yadav received the Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer in overall order of merit.
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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.
Unveiling of Trainees’ Magazine
The occasion also witnessed the unveiling of the second edition of Ankur 2025, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka. The publication highlights the experiences, challenges, and transformative journey of Agniveers during their training period.
Conclusion
The Passing Out Parade of the 02/25 batch at INS Chilka marked a significant milestone in the induction of a new generation of naval personnel, reinforcing the Indian Navy’s commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, and excellence in training as it prepares its manpower for future maritime challenges.
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Source: PIB
