Ezhimala: The Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala witnessed a momentous Passing Out Parade (POP) on Saturday, as 239 trainees marked the successful completion of their rigorous ab-initio training. The graduates included Midshipmen of the 107th Indian Naval Academy Course, cadets from the 38th and 39th Naval Orientation Courses (Extended), the 39th Naval Orientation Course (Regular), and the 40th Naval Orientation Course for Coast Guard and Foreign trainees. Among them were eight foreign cadets from four countries and 29 women trainees, symbolizing the academy’s diversity and excellence.
Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), reviewed the parade and awarded medals to meritorious trainees. The notable achievements included:
- President’s Gold Medal for the INA B.Tech Course: Midshipman Ayush Kumar Singh.
- CNS Silver Medal and FOC-in-C South Bronze Medal: Midshipmen Karan Singh and Kartikey V Vernekar.
- CNS Gold Medal for Naval Orientation Course (Extended): SLt Ritwik Mishra.
- CNS Gold Medal for 39 NOC (Regular): SLt Isha Shah, who also received the Zamorin Trophy for Best All-Round Woman Cadet.
- 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 in a poignant “Antim Pag” (final step) tradition to the tune of Auld Lang Syne. Proud families, beaming with joy, celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance by the trainees.
Admiral Tripathi lauded the graduates for their impeccable turnout and precision drill movements. He expressed gratitude to their parents for supporting their children’s choice of a noble career in the armed forces. Addressing the international cadets, he highlighted the INA’s role in fostering global cooperation and its state-of-the-art training facilities.
In his address, the CNS emphasized the pillars of military leadership: courage, resilience, and integrity. He reminded the newly commissioned officers of their duty to uphold national security with pride, honour, and an unwavering commitment to the nation.
“The weight of national security rests on your shoulders. Wear it with pride, carry it with honour, and never falter in its service,” he said, inspiring the officers as they embark on their professional journeys.
Following the parade, the Stripe Shipping Ceremony marked a proud moment as the trainees donned their naval stripes for the first time. Interacting with the officers and their families, Admiral Tripathi and other dignitaries congratulated them on this significant milestone.
The newly commissioned officers will now join various Naval and Coast Guard ships and establishments, while the foreign cadets will return to their respective navies. As they step into their roles, they will uphold the INA’s core values of Duty, Honour, and Courage, contributing to national and global maritime security.