A remarkable Passing Out Parade (POP) for the third batch of Agniveers (02/2023) took place at INS Chilka in Odisha on March 15, 2024. A total of 2,630 Agniveers, including 396 women Agniveers, graduated in a ceremony held after sunset, overseen by Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff. Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, served as the conducting officer. Sudarshan Sahoo, the esteemed sculptor and recipient of Padma Shri and Padma Vibhusan, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Renowned sports personality and Arjuna awardee M Suranjay Singh, MCPO I (PT), along with various accomplished veterans, were also in attendance. The proud family members of the graduating course also witnessed this significant event. The POP signifies the completion of 16 weeks of initial Naval training and the commencement of their new journey in the Indian Navy.
The Chief of the Naval Staff commended the parade trainees for their flawless turnout, exemplary military bearing, and sharp drill. He emphasized that new challenges are arising from the global security landscape, underscoring the importance of utilizing the acquired training effectively to accomplish desired objectives. He urged the Agniveers to refine their skills, stay abreast of technology, and cultivate a strong knowledge base, eagerness to learn, and dedication to excel in their respective domains. Furthermore, he urged them to uphold the Navy’s core values of Duty, Honour, and Courage while serving the nation with pride and integrity. The Reviewing Officer expressed gratitude to the parents of the Agniveers, recognizing their contribution to the country.
The Chief Guest also presented medals and trophies to outstanding Agniveers during the event. Prathamesh Amit Darekar, Agniveer (SSR), and Sanni Kumar Rajak, Agniveer (MR), 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, Agniveer (SSR), was recognized as the Best Woman Agniveer in the overall order of merit and awarded the Gen Bipin Rawat Rolling Trophy.
At the valedictory function, the Chief of the Naval Staff presented the overall Championship Trophy to the Angad Division and the Runners Up Trophy to the Shivaji Division. Additionally, he unveiled the summer edition of Ankur, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka.
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