On March 16, 2024, a magnificent Passing Out Parade (POP) commemorated the graduation of the third batch of Agniveers (02/2023) at INS Chilka in Odisha. A total of 2,630 Agniveers, including 396 women, participated in the post-sunset ceremony, which was presided over by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff. Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, served as the conducting officer. Renowned sculptor Shri Sudarshan Sahoo, a recipient of the Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan awards, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Additionally, distinguished sports personality M Suranjay Singh, MCPO I (PT), and several accomplished veterans were in attendance, alongside proud family members of the passing out course. This significant event marks the culmination of 16 weeks of comprehensive Naval training and signifies the beginning of a new journey for the graduates of the Indian Navy.
Admiral Kumar commended the trainees for their exemplary turnout, impeccable military bearing, and proficient drill manoeuvres. He emphasized the evolving challenges within the global security landscape and urged the Agniveers to leverage their training effectively to achieve strategic objectives. Stressing the importance of continuous skill development, technological awareness, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Admiral Kumar encouraged the graduates to uphold the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour, and Courage while serving the nation with dedication and integrity. He also expressed gratitude to the parents of the Agniveers for their invaluable contribution to the country.
During the ceremony, the Chief Guest presented medals and trophies to the outstanding Agniveers. Prathamesh Amit Darekar and Sanni Kumar Rajak received the Chief of the Naval Staff Rolling Trophy and Gold Medal for Best Agniveer SSR & MR, respectively, in the men’s category. Samruddhi Khandave was honoured as the Best Woman Agniveer in the overall order of merit and awarded the Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy.
In addition to individual accolades, the Chief of the Naval Staff presented the overall Championship Trophy to the Angad Division and the Runners Up Trophy to the Shivaji Division during the valedictory function. Furthermore, he unveiled the summer edition of Ankur, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka, symbolizing the culmination of a remarkable chapter in the journey of these Agniveers.
