The Indian Navy is preparing for a major training milestone as INS Chilka in Odisha gets ready to host the Passing Out Parade (POP) of its largest-ever batch of Agniveers and Indian Coast Guard Naviks on November 13, 2026. More than 3,300 trainees from the two services will participate in the ceremony after successfully completing 16 weeks of initial training at the naval establishment.
The parade will mark the completion of training for the ninth batch of Indian Navy Agniveers, alongside the Coast Guard Naviks. Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, will attend the ceremony as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer. His presence will highlight the importance of the occasion as the Navy continues to strengthen its training and personnel development framework.
INS Chilka, the Indian Navy’s premier initial training establishment, plays an important role in preparing young recruits for their responsibilities in maritime service. The 16-week training programme is designed to develop physical fitness, mental resilience, discipline and professional competence among trainees before they move forward in their respective service careers.
The training curriculum combines classroom education with physical conditioning, swimming, parade drills, outdoor activities and training camps. Alongside these activities, considerable attention is given to leadership development, character building, teamwork and camaraderie. The programme also introduces recruits to the core values of the Indian Navy, namely Duty, Honour and Courage, which form an essential part of military service.
The successful completion of the course represents an important transition for the trainees as they prepare to take on responsibilities within their respective services. Their families, naval veterans and other distinguished guests are expected to attend the passing-out ceremony, making it a significant occasion for the recruits and their families.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, will preside over the associated valedictory function. During the event, awards will be presented to outstanding trainees, the champion division and the best instructor to recognise their performance and contributions throughout the training programme.
Another highlight of the occasion will be the unveiling of ‘Ankur’, a bilingual magazine prepared by the trainees. The publication is expected to showcase their experiences, activities and creative contributions during their time at INS Chilka.
The Indian Navy will also livestream the Passing Out Parade through its official social media platforms, allowing people across the country to follow the ceremony. This will provide an opportunity for families and citizens who cannot attend the event in person to witness the milestone.
The graduation of more than 3,300 trainees marks a significant achievement for INS Chilka and reflects the establishment’s role in preparing the next generation of Indian Navy personnel and Coast Guard recruits. As the trainees complete their initial training, November 13 will mark the beginning of a new phase in their professional journeys in India’s maritime security services.