Achiever Squadron Wins INA Inter-Squadron Public Speaking Competition as Cadets Hone Leadership Skills

The Indian Naval Academy (INA) has held an Inter-Squadron Public Speaking Competition as part of its effort to build communication skills, confidence and leadership qualities among cadets preparing for careers as Indian Navy officers. The event brought together participants from different squadrons and gave them a formal platform to present their ideas before an audience with clarity and composure.

At the academy, public speaking is treated as more than a classroom exercise. For future naval officers, the ability to speak clearly, think on their feet and persuade an audience is closely linked to leadership. The competition was designed to help cadets organise their thoughts, present arguments convincingly and express themselves with confidence on stage.

Cadets from multiple squadrons competed against one another, and the contest assessed both the substance of their speeches and the manner in which they delivered them. In addition to the quality of their content, participants were judged on their command over language, presentation skills and their ability to hold the attention of the audience.

Achiever Squadron emerged as the winner after what the academy described as a strong overall performance. Its speakers stood out for the quality of their content as well as the confidence and force of expression they displayed during the competition.

The squadron’s success reflected the preparation and competitive spirit of the cadets who represented it. Their performance also highlighted a skill that is central to naval leadership: the ability to combine sound ideas with effective communication, especially in situations where officers must lead sailors and handle responsibilities under demanding conditions.

Book prizes were presented by the Principal of the Indian Naval Academy to the individual winners in recognition of their performance. The awards acknowledged cadets who demonstrated a particularly strong ability to articulate their thoughts and present them effectively before an audience.

The competition also served a wider training purpose for all those who took part. Speaking in a formal setting helps young cadets overcome hesitation, improve stage presence and learn to communicate under pressure. It also encourages them to listen to different viewpoints, structure their arguments carefully and respond in a disciplined manner.

Such communication training is an important part of military leadership. Officers are expected to brief teams, convey operational instructions, interact with senior leadership and represent their units in professional settings. The ability to explain complex ideas in a simple and convincing way is therefore a key professional skill.

At INA, activities such as public speaking competitions complement the academy’s academic, physical and military training. While classroom learning and field exercises build knowledge and operational competence, debates, discussions and speaking events help shape personality, confidence and leadership presence.

The inter-squadron format adds another dimension by encouraging healthy competition while reinforcing squadron spirit and teamwork. Cadets do not compete only as individuals; they also carry the identity of their squadrons, which adds responsibility and collective pride to their performance.

For cadets in training to become commissioned officers of the Indian Navy, such experiences are part of a broader transition from trainees to military leaders. As they move towards roles involving responsibility for personnel, equipment and operational missions, the ability to think clearly, speak effectively and communicate with conviction becomes increasingly important.

The Inter-Squadron Public Speaking Competition at the Indian Naval Academy therefore went beyond a simple contest of speeches. It formed part of the academy’s wider effort to develop well-rounded officers who can express themselves confidently, influence others positively and take on leadership responsibilities in service of the nation.