INS Chilka Prepares for Historic Graduation of Over 3,300 Navy Agniveers and Coast Guard Recruits

INS Chilka in Odisha is preparing to host a major milestone in India’s maritime personnel training programme, with more than 3,300 Indian Navy Agniveers and Indian Coast Guard Naviks scheduled to graduate on November 13, 2026. The upcoming Passing Out Parade (POP) will bring together the largest-ever batch of trainees to complete their initial training at the naval establishment.

The ceremony will mark the successful completion of 16 weeks of intensive training for the ninth batch of Indian Navy Agniveers and Coast Guard Naviks. Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, will attend the event as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer, highlighting the significance of the occasion for India’s maritime services.

During their time at INS Chilka, the recruits undergo a structured training programme intended to prepare them for the demands of military and maritime service. The course combines academic instruction with physical fitness exercises, swimming, parade training, outdoor activities and training camps. These activities help develop the physical endurance, discipline and professional capabilities required for their future assignments.

The training programme also focuses on developing leadership qualities, teamwork, confidence and mental resilience among the young recruits. Character development and camaraderie form important parts of the curriculum, while trainees are introduced to the Indian Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour and Courage. The objective is to build a strong foundation that will guide them throughout their service careers.

The November 13 ceremony will also recognise individual and collective achievements during the training period. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, will preside over the associated valedictory function. Awards will be presented to outstanding trainees, the champion division and the best instructor in recognition of their performance and contributions.

Adding a creative dimension to the graduation celebrations, the trainees have also prepared a bilingual magazine titled ‘Ankur’. The publication will reflect their experiences, activities and creative contributions during their training at INS Chilka, offering a glimpse into their journey at the establishment.

The Passing Out Parade is expected to bring together the families of the graduating recruits, naval veterans and other distinguished guests. For the trainees, the event will represent the culmination of their initial training and an important transition towards their respective service responsibilities.

The Indian Navy will also make the ceremony accessible to a wider audience through a livestream on its official social media platforms. This will allow families and members of the public to watch the proceedings and share the achievement of the graduating personnel.

With more than 3,300 trainees completing their initial course together, the event represents a major achievement for INS Chilka’s training programme. The graduation of the ninth Agniveer batch alongside Indian Coast Guard Naviks also highlights the establishment’s contribution to developing trained personnel for India’s maritime security framework.