In a momentous ceremony at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), 239 trainees, including Midshipmen and cadets from various Naval Orientation Courses, graduated during the Passing Out Parade (POP) held on Saturday. The occasion marked the conclusion of rigorous training for the 107th Indian Naval Academy Course, the 38th and 39th Naval Orientation Course (Extended), the 39th Naval Orientation Course (Regular), and the 40th Naval Orientation Course (Coast Guard and Foreign). Among the graduates were 29 women trainees and eight foreign cadets from four countries.
The parade was inspected by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, who also presented awards to meritorious trainees. The Chief Guest was accompanied by Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President of the Naval Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA). Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, officiated the proceedings, with Vice Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair, Commandant of INA, and Mrs. Deepa Bhatt, President of NWWA Ezhimala, also in attendance.
Several trainees received prestigious awards for their exceptional performances:
- President’s Gold Medal (INA B.Tech Course): Midshipman Ayush Kumar Singh
- CNS Silver Medal and FOC-in-C South Bronze Medal: Midshipman Karan Singh and Midshipman Kartikey V. Vernekar, respectively
- CNS Gold Medal (Naval Orientation Course - Extended): Sub Lieutenant Ritwik Mishra
- FOC-in-C South Silver Medal and Commandant INA Bronze Medal: Cadet Srajan Jain and Sub Lieutenant Bodekar S. Subhash, respectively
- CNS Gold Medal (39th Naval Orientation Course - Regular): Sub Lieutenant Isha Shah
- Commandant INA Silver Medal and Zamorin Trophy for Best All-Round Woman Cadet: Sub Lieutenant Mathi Nesiga T and Sub Lieutenant Isha Shah, respectively
- Director General Coast Guard Best Assistant Commandant Award: Assistant Commandant Akash Tiwari
The trainees marched with ceremonial swords and rifles, saluting the Academy’s Quarterdeck during the customary "Antim Pag" or final step, to the stirring tune of Auld Lang Syne. Proud parents and families watched with delight and pride as their loved ones reached this significant milestone.
Addressing the graduates, Admiral Tripathi congratulated them on their impeccable turnout and drill. He thanked the families for their support and emphasized the INA’s integration of international cadets, a testament to India’s robust foreign cooperation. He exhorted the newly commissioned officers to uphold military leadership pillars of courage, resilience, and integrity.
"The weight of national security rests on your shoulders," he said. "Wear it with pride, carry it with honor, and never falter in its service."
Following the parade, the newly commissioned officers participated in the Stripe Shipping ceremony, wearing their naval stripes for the first time. They interacted with dignitaries, including Admiral Tripathi, and celebrated with their families.
The commissioned officers will now move to various Naval and Coast Guard duties, while the foreign cadets return to their home navies. As they venture on their professional voyages, these officers will further specialize in their fields, upholding the core values of duty, honor, and courage.
This POP marked the successful conclusion of the trainee's stringent training and the INA's role in shaping future leaders for India’s maritime security and beyond. (PR)