A grand Passing Out Parade for the Spring Term 2026 was conducted at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, on Thursday, 28 May 2026, marking a proud and memorable milestone in the lives of young trainees who successfully completed their ab initio military training. The ceremonial parade witnessed the passing out of 311 trainees, including 66 women trainees, who marched with confidence, discipline and military bearing at one of India’s premier officer training institutions.
The passing out cohort also reflected the Indian Naval Academy’s growing international stature, with six trainees from three Friendly Foreign Countries — Seychelles, Tanzania and Vietnam — completing their training alongside Indian trainees. Among them were two women trainees from Seychelles, highlighting the Academy’s role in fostering international defence cooperation and building bonds of friendship at the foundational stage of military training.
The parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command. Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM, Commandant, Indian Naval Academy, conducted the Reviewing Officer during the ceremonial parade. The event was attended by senior military officers, distinguished guests, foreign Military Attaches and proud parents of the passing out trainees, who gathered to witness the culmination of months of rigorous training, discipline and transformation.
The Passing Out Parade at INA is among the most significant events in the life of a naval trainee. It symbolises the transition from cadet life to commissioned service, where young officers prepare to shoulder responsibilities in the service of the nation. With ceremonial precision, immaculate turnout and synchronized drill movements, the parade reflected the high standards of training imparted at the Academy.
During the parade, the Reviewing Officer presented medals and trophies to meritorious trainees who excelled in academics, professional training, leadership, physical endurance and overall performance. The prestigious President’s Gold Medal for standing first in the 110th Indian Naval Academy Course was awarded to Midshipman Kuldeep Singh.
Midshipman Udayveer Singh Negi received the FOC-in-C South Trophy for securing first position in the overall order of merit among the passing out ex-NDA trainees. The CNS Gold Medal for standing first in the overall order of merit in the 41st Naval Orientation Course Extended was awarded to Cadet Janvi Chirag Mehta, while the CNS Gold Medal for the 42nd Naval Orientation Course Regular was awarded to Cadet Seema S Tendulkar.
The FOC-in-C South Trophy for Best International Trainee was awarded to Midshipman Nguyen Van Hau from Vietnam, underlining the contribution of foreign trainees to the Academy’s multicultural and professional training environment. The Director General Coast Guard Trophy for Best Coast Guard Trainee was awarded to Cadet Sarvagya Mishra of the 42nd Naval Orientation Coast Guard Course.
Another important highlight of the parade was the presentation of the Commandant’s Champion Squadron Banner. During every term at the Indian Naval Academy, the squadron adjudged as the best performing squadron across all disciplines of training and competitive events is awarded this coveted banner. For Spring Term 2026, the Reviewing Officer awarded the Champion Squadron Banner to Fighter Squadron.
Addressing the passing out trainees, Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena congratulated them on the successful completion of their training at the Indian Naval Academy. He complimented the trainees for their impeccable turnout and high standards of drill, which reflected their dedication, hard work and the quality of instruction provided at the Academy.
The Reviewing Officer also commended the instructors and training staff of INA for their sustained commitment in shaping young trainees into future officers. He acknowledged the important role played by parents and families, whose support and sacrifices remain an essential part of every officer’s journey.
Vice Admiral Saxena also emphasised the importance of integrating foreign trainees at the ab initio training stage. He noted that such early integration builds strong bonds of friendship among young military leaders and contributes to the sustenance of international maritime cooperation in the years ahead. The presence of trainees from Friendly Foreign Countries at INA stands as a testament to India’s growing maritime partnerships and defence diplomacy.
Following the parade, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, the Commandant INA, parents and other dignitaries participated in the traditional ceremony of shipping the stripes of Sub Lieutenant rank on the passing out trainees. It was an emotional and proud moment for the families, as the young trainees formally stepped into their roles as officers.
The newly commissioned officers will now proceed to various naval training establishments and frontline ships of the Indian Navy, where they will further enhance their professional skills and operational competencies. Their future training will prepare them for the complex and demanding responsibilities of maritime service, including leadership at sea, technological proficiency, combat readiness and service to the nation.
The Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade at the Indian Naval Academy was not merely a ceremonial event, but a celebration of perseverance, discipline, transformation and national service. As 311 trainees marched past the quarterdeck of INA, they carried with them the values of honour, courage and commitment that define the Indian Navy.
With 66 women trainees among the passing out cohort and participation from friendly foreign nations, the parade also reflected the evolving character of modern military training — inclusive, international and focused on building future-ready leaders for the maritime domain. The newly commissioned officers now begin a new chapter in their journey, ready to serve the nation and uphold the proud traditions of the Indian Navy.
