INS Chilka hosts passing out parade for 02/25 batch of Naval and Coast Guard trainees

The premier basic training establishment of the Indian Navy, INS Chilka, witnessed the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch of trainees on Thursday, marking the successful completion of 16 weeks of ab-initio training. The post-sunset ceremonial parade signified the trainees’ transition into disciplined and operationally prepared maritime professionals.

A total of 2,172 trainees graduated during the ceremony. The batch included 2,103 Agniveers, among them 113 women, 270 Senior Secondary Recruits (Medical Assistants), 44 sports entry personnel of the Indian Navy, and 295 Naviks of the Indian Coast Guard.

Senior Naval Leadership in Attendance

The parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, who attended as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer. Commodore B Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer of INS Chilka, served as the Conducting Officer.

The ceremony was attended by senior naval officers, veterans, eminent sports personalities, dignitaries, and family members of the passing-out trainees.

Display of Precision and Professionalism

The parade reflected the high standards of drill, discipline and professionalism achieved during training. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts underscored the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and equal opportunities in operational roles.

Message to the New Graduates

Addressing the trainees, Vice Admiral Saxena congratulated them on completing their training and urged them to continuously upgrade their professional skills while remaining technologically adept. He emphasised adherence to the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage, and called upon the graduates to serve the nation with integrity and determination.

The reviewing officer also acknowledged the support of the trainees’ families and commended Team INS Chilka for its role in shaping the future workforce of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
Awards and Recognitions

During the ceremony, medals and trophies were presented 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 General Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer in the overall order of merit.

Also Read: India surpasses 50,000 NQAS-certified health facilities, marking major leap in public healthcare quality

Keshav Suryavanshi and Sonendra were recognised as Best Navik (General Duty) and Best Navik (Domestic Branch), respectively.

Valedictory Highlights

Earlier, during the valedictory function, Kharavela Division was presented with the Overall Championship Trophy, while Ashok Division secured the runners-up position. The event also saw the release of the second edition of “Ankur 2025”, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka, capturing the experiences and transformational journey of the Agniveers during training.

The passing out of the 02/25 batch marks another milestone in INS Chilka’s role as the cornerstone of basic training for India’s maritime forces.