Naval Officer Trainees Celebrate Successful Completion of Sea Training

After undergoing rigorous sea training, the 106 Integrated Officer Trainees Course (IOTC) celebrated their achievements at a Valedictory Dinner held onboard the First Training Squadron (1TS) on May 9th, 2024. Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The event marked the successful completion of training for 99 sea trainees, including international participants, who trained under the auspices of 1TS.

During the ceremony, Vice Admiral Srinivas congratulated the trainees on their dedication and awarded trophies to those who demonstrated outstanding performance during the training period. Midshipman C Praneeth was awarded the Telescope for the Best All-Round Sea Trainee, while Midshipman PPK Reddy received the Binocular for securing the first position in the overall Order of Merit.

In his address to the trainees, Vice Admiral Srinivas emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in the ever-changing maritime environment. He urged the officers to uphold the values of professionalism and empathy while fulfilling their duties, emphasizing the motto “Seva Parmo Dharma” or “Service Before Self.”

Following the Valedictory Dinner, a Divisions ceremony was conducted onboard INS Tir on May 11th, 2024, which was presided over by Rear Admiral Satish Shenai, Chief Staff Officer (Training), Southern Naval Command. This marked an important milestone as the officers prepared to join frontline Naval warships and Coast Guard patrol vessels on both the Western and Eastern Seaboards for further training and consolidation.

Notably, Assistant Commandant Prishita Juggamah from the Mauritius Coast Guard made history by becoming the first female trainee to complete sea training under the 1TS program, underscoring the commitment to diversity and inclusivity in naval training programs.