Khurda: A batch of 2,172 trainees passed out from INS Chilka in an impressive post-sunset ceremonial parade on Thursday. The passing-out batch comprised 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 grand show marked the successful culmination of 16 weeks of ab-initio training, symbolising their transformation into disciplined, resilient and combat ready naval professionals.
The chief guest and reviewing officer at the occasion was Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Southern Naval Command. Commodore B Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer, INS Chilka, was 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 high standards of drill, discipline and professionalism attained by the trainees. The participation of women Agniveers alongside their male counterparts reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment towards inclusivity and gender neutrality in operational roles.
Addressing the parade, the FOC-in-C congratulated the trainees on successful completion of their training. He impressed upon them to hone their professional skills and be technologically aware, while imbibing the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage.
Vice Admiral Saxena also directed the trainees to uphold the honour of the nation while charting their course with courage and determination. He expressed his appreciation to the parents of Agniveers acknowledging their contribution to the nation. The chief guest complimented Team Chilka for their relentless efforts and crucial role in shaping the transformation of Navy and nation.
The chief guest also awarded medals and trophies to meritorious Agniveers. Sashi B Kenchavagol and Jatin Mishra were awarded the Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy and Gold Medal for Best Agniveer (SSR) and Best Agniveer (MR) respectively. Anita Yadav received the Gen 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, 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. The magazine showcases the experiences and the transformative journey of Agniveers.
