Chilka:The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch was conducted with ceremonial grandeur at INS Chilka, marking the successful completion of 16 weeks of ab-initio training. Held as an impressive post-sunset ceremonial parade, the event symbolised the transformation of young recruits into disciplined, resilient and combat-ready naval professionals.
A total of 2,172 trainees passed out, comprising 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.
The parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, who was the Chief Guest. Commodore B Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, served as the Conducting Officer. The ceremony was attended by senior naval officers, distinguished veterans, eminent sports personalities, dignitaries, and proud family members of the trainees.
The parade reflected the high standards of drill, discipline and professionalism achieved during training. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts stood as a strong reaffirmation of the Indian Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and gender-neutral operational roles.
Addressing the trainees, Vice Admiral Saxena congratulated them on their successful completion of training and urged them to continuously hone their professional skills, remain technologically adept, and imbibe the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage. He called upon them to uphold the honour of the nation with courage and determination and expressed his appreciation to the parents of Agniveers for their invaluable contribution. The Chief Guest also commended Team INS Chilka for their relentless efforts in shaping the future of the Navy and the nation.
During the ceremony, medals and trophies were awarded to meritorious trainees:
- Sashi B Kenchavagol – Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy & Gold Medal for Best Agniveer (SSR)
- Jatin Mishra – Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy & Gold Medal for Best Agniveer (MR)
- Anita Yadav – Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer (Overall Order of Merit)
- Keshav Suryavanshi – Best Navik (GD)
- Sonendra – Best Navik (DB)
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, capturing the experiences and transformative journeys of Agniveers.
