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2,172 Sailors Pass Out from INS Chilka After Intensive 16-Week Training

A total of 2,172 sailor trainees, including 2,103 Agniveers, successfully passed out from INS Chilka after a rigorous 16-week ab-initio training program. The post-sunset Passing Out Parade was reviewed by Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena, who urged the new sailors to uphold the Navy's core values. The batch included 113 women Agniveers, reaffirming the Navy's commitment to gender neutrality in operational roles. Meritorious trainees received awards, including the General Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for the Best Woman Agniveer.

Key Points: 2,172 Trainee Sailors Pass Out from INS Chilka

  • 2,172 trainees complete 16-week course
  • Includes 113 women Agniveers
  • Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena chief guest
  • Awards given to top performers
  • Ceremony held in post-sunset parade
3 min read

INS Chilka: 2,172 sailors pass out after 16-week training

Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena reviewed the parade of 2,172 sailors, including 113 women Agniveers, who completed 16 weeks of ab-initio training at INS Chilka.

"hone their professional skills and be technologically aware, while imbibing the Navy's core values - Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena"

New Delhi, Jan 9

Vice-Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, asked the 2,172 passing out trainee sailors at the INS Chilka to hone their professional skills and be technologically aware, while imbibing the Navy's core values of duty, honour, and courage, an official said on Friday.

As many as 2,172 sailor trainees took part in the Passing Out Parade of second batch of year 2025 held at the INS Chilka on Thursday, marking the successful culmination of 16 weeks of ab-initio training, the official added.

The trainees passed out in an impressive post-sunset ceremonial parade on Thursday, symbolising their transformation into disciplined, resilient and combat ready Naval professionals, a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence said.

The passing-out batch of 2,172 trainees comprised 2,103 Agniveers, including 113 women Agniveers, 270 Senior Secondary Recruit (Medical Assistants), 44 sports entry personnel of the Indian Navy and 295 'Naviks' of the Indian Coast Guard.

Vice-Admiral Saxena was the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer of the parade and Commodore B. Deepak Aneel, Commanding Officer at the 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 statement said.

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, Vice-Admiral Saxena congratulated the trainees on successful completion of their training.

He 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 the Navy and nation.

The Chief Guest 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 (Senior Secondary Recruit) and Best Agniveer (Matric Recruit) respectively.

Anita Yadav received the General Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy for Best Woman Agniveer in overall order of merit.

Keshav Suryavanshi and Sonendra were adjudged the Best Navik (General Duty) and Best Navik (Domestic Branch) 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.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
Heartiest congratulations to all the trainees, especially Anita Yadav for winning the General Bipin Rawat Trophy! Seeing women Agniveers excelling in operational roles is a powerful step forward for our Navy and our country. More power to you all!
V
Vikram M
A batch of 2,172 sailors in just 16 weeks! INS Chilka is doing phenomenal work in transforming young Indians into disciplined professionals. The focus on being technologically aware is crucial for modern naval warfare. Our maritime security is in good hands.
S
Sarah B
As someone following military developments, the scale and efficiency of this training is impressive. Integrating the Coast Guard's 'Naviks' and sports entries shows a holistic approach to recruitment. The bilingual magazine 'Ankur' is also a nice touch for documenting their journey.
K
Karthik V
While it's great to see such large numbers, I hope the training quality isn't compromised for quantity. A 16-week ab-initio training seems very short to make someone "combat ready" for the complex Indian Ocean region. I trust the Navy knows best, but it's a point to ponder.
P
Priya S
Salute to all the parents! The Vice-Admiral acknowledging their contribution is so important. Sending your child to the armed forces is the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Congratulations to Kharavela Division for the championship! 🎉

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