The Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala witnessed a significant milestone today as it held the Passing Out Parade (POP) for the 106 Indian Naval Academy Course, 36 & 37 Naval Orientation Courses (Extended), 38 Naval Orientation Course (Regular), and 39 Naval Orientation Course (Coast Guard & Foreign). The parade was reviewed by Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, marking a proud moment for the 216 trainees, including 34 women and 10 international cadets, who completed their rigorous training.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials including Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval Command, and Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, Commandant of INA. The parade celebrated the culmination of the trainees’ ab-initio training and their official induction into the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
Outstanding Achievements and Medal Winners
The ceremony saw several outstanding performances, with Midshipman Pinintla Pradeep Kumar Reddy being awarded the prestigious President’s Gold Medal for securing the top position in overall merit. Other notable medal winners included:
- CNS Silver Medal for INAC B.Tech Course: Midshipman Mohammad Sameer
- FOC-in-C South Bronze Medal for INAC B.Tech Course: Midshipman Rahul Darshansingh Shoeran
- CNS Gold Medal for NOC (Extended): Cadet Sandhitha Patnaik
- FOC-in-C South Silver Medal for NOC (Extended): Cadet Shaurya Jamwal
- Commandant, INA Bronze Medal for NOC (Extended): Cadet Saloni K Singh
- Gold Medal instituted by the CNS for NOC (Reg) and Best All-Round Women Cadet: Cadet Janhvi Singh
- Commandant Silver Medal for NOC (Reg): Cadet Sahanaa MK
- Director General Coast Guard Best Assistant Commandant: Assistant Commandant Aditya Ojha
The Fighter Squadron was awarded the prestigious Champion Squadron banner, a testament to their exemplary performance.
A Momentous March Past
In a poignant display, the newly commissioned officers marched past the Academy’s Quarterdeck in slow march, their gleaming swords and rifles held high in salute. The traditional farewell tune marked their ‘Antim Pag’ or final step at INA. Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari congratulated the trainees for their hard work, exceptional performances, and the Champion Squadron for their achievement. He commended the trainees’ impeccable turnout, military bearing, and smart drill.
The Reviewing Officer expressed his gratitude to the parents for supporting the trainees in choosing the noble profession of arms and committing to the nation’s service. He highlighted the integration of international trainees, emphasizing the INA’s role in strengthening India’s foreign cooperation and showcasing its world-class training facilities.
A Milestone in Gender Equality
The 38 NOC is notably the first to undergo an enhanced training duration of 44 weeks, including five women officers in the Executive branch. This marks a significant step towards a gender-neutral Indian Navy.
Ceremony and Future Assignments
Following the parade, the Chief of Air Staff, FOCINC (South), and Commandant, INA, along with other dignitaries and proud parents, participated in the commissioning ceremony. The newly commissioned officers received their stripes, signifying their readiness to serve. The dignitaries interacted with the trainees and their parents, congratulating them on their successful completion of the demanding training.
The officers will now proceed to various naval ships and establishments to further their training in specialized fields. These newly commissioned officers carry the nation’s trust and are tasked with upholding and reinforcing the Indian Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour, and Courage, contributing to a Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready force.
