The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 02/25 batch was held at INS Chilka on January 8, 2026, marking the successful culmination of 16 weeks of rigorous 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—along with 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 Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, who was the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer. Commodore B Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, served as the Conducting Officer. The ceremony was attended by distinguished veterans, eminent sports personalities, senior naval officers, other dignitaries, and family members of the passing-out trainees.
The parade showcased the high standards of drill, discipline, and professionalism achieved by the trainees. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and gender neutrality in operational roles.
Addressing the parade, the Reviewing Officer congratulated the trainees on the successful completion of training and urged them to continually hone their professional skills, remain technologically adept, and uphold 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 appreciation to the parents of Agniveers for their contribution to national service. The Chief Guest also complimented Team Chilka for its relentless efforts and pivotal role in shaping the transformation of the Navy and the nation.
During the ceremony, medals and trophies were awarded to meritorious trainees. 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 overall order of merit. Keshav Suryavanshi and Sonendra were adjudged Best Navik (GD) and Best Navik (DB) respectively.
Earlier, during the Valedictory Function, Kharavela Division won the Overall Championship Trophy, while Ashok Division secured the Runners-Up position. The occasion also saw the unveiling of the second edition of Ankur 2025, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka, capturing the experiences and transformative journey of the Agniveers.
