Bhubaneswar, 5/1 : INS Chilka, the Indian Navy’s premier basic training establishment located in Odisha, is set to host a significant Passing Out Parade (POP) on January 8, 2026. The ceremony will mark the successful completion of 16 weeks of rigorous ab-initio training for approximately 2,700 naval trainees, formally inducting them into the operational fold of the Indian Navy.
The passing-out batch, designated as the 02/25 batch, comprises a substantial number of Agniveers, totaling around 2,100, with over 110 of them being women trainees. This event is a crucial milestone for these young sailors as they embark on their journey of service to the nation under the Agnipath scheme.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest. He will review the post-sunset Passing Out Parade, which is anticipated to be a spectacular display of discipline and commitment. The momentous ceremony will be witnessed by the proud families of the passing-out trainees, along with distinguished naval veterans and eminent sports personalities, adding to the grandeur and national importance of the event.
The Passing Out Parade at INS Chilka underscores the Indian Navy’s steadfast emphasis on training as the bedrock of a professional and combat-ready force. INS Chilka has consistently played a pivotal role in transforming raw recruits into disciplined and resilient sailors, equipping them with the physical endurance, mental toughness, and professional skills essential for operating on modern naval platforms.
Following the parade, Vice Admiral Saxena will preside over the Valedictory Function. During this function, awards and trophies will be presented to meritorious trainees and the Champion Division, recognizing their hard work and dedication during the intensive training period. Additionally, the bilingual trainees’ magazine ‘Ankur’ will be formally unveiled, capturing the memories and experiences of their training journey.
To ensure wider participation and allow citizens across the country to witness this landmark event, the Passing Out Parade will be live-streamed on the Indian Navy’s official YouTube channel and Facebook page. It will also be broadcast through the regional Doordarshan network.
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