Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade at Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala
The Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala hosted a significant Passing Out Parade for the Spring Term 2026 on Thursday, 28 May 2026. This event marked a pivotal moment for 311 young trainees, including 66 women, who successfully completed their initial military training. The parade was a showcase of confidence, discipline, and military precision at one of India's top officer training institutions.
The cohort included six international trainees from Seychelles, Tanzania, and Vietnam, highlighting the academy's expanding international reach. Among these international participants were two women from Seychelles, underscoring the academy's commitment to fostering international defense cooperation from the outset of military training.
The event was overseen by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command. Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM, Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, assisted in conducting the ceremonial parade. The occasion drew senior military officers, distinguished guests, foreign military attachés, and proud parents, all present to witness the culmination of rigorous training and personal transformation.
The Passing Out Parade is a pivotal event for naval trainees, marking the transition from cadets to commissioned officers, ready to take on responsibilities for the nation. The parade, with its immaculate precision and synchronized drill movements, is a testament to the high standards upheld by the academy.
During the parade, Vice Admiral Saxena presented medals and trophies to outstanding trainees for excellence in academics, professional training, leadership, and physical endurance. Midshipman Kuldeep Singh was awarded the prestigious President’s Gold Medal for topping the 110th Indian Naval Academy Course.
Midshipman Udayveer Singh Negi received the FOC-in-C South Trophy for the highest overall merit among ex-NDA trainees. Cadet Janvi Chirag Mehta earned the CNS Gold Medal for first place in the overall merit of the 41st Naval Orientation Course Extended, while Cadet Seema S Tendulkar received the same honor for the 42nd Naval Orientation Course Regular.
Midshipman Nguyen Van Hau from Vietnam was awarded the FOC-in-C South Trophy for Best International Trainee, reflecting the contribution of foreign participants to the academy’s diverse training environment. Cadet Sarvagya Mishra received the Director General Coast Guard Trophy for Best Coast Guard Trainee in the 42nd Naval Orientation Coast Guard Course.
The Fighter Squadron was awarded the Commandant’s Champion Squadron Banner for being the best performing squadron across all disciplines and competitive events during the Spring Term 2026.
In his address, Vice Admiral Saxena congratulated the trainees on completing their training and commended them for their dedication and the high standards they achieved, which reflect the quality of instruction at the academy.
The Reviewing Officer also praised the instructors and training staff for their commitment to training future officers and acknowledged the support and sacrifices of the trainees’ families.
Vice Admiral Saxena highlighted the importance of integrating foreign trainees at the initial training stage to build lasting friendships and enhance international maritime cooperation. The presence of trainees from Friendly Foreign Countries is a testament to India's growing maritime partnerships.
Following the parade, dignitaries, including the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief and the Commandant of INA, participated in the traditional ceremony of awarding Sub Lieutenant stripes to the new officers, a poignant moment for families as their loved ones officially became officers.
The newly commissioned officers will now advance to various naval training establishments and frontline ships to further develop their skills and readiness for maritime service, including leadership, technological proficiency, and combat readiness.
The Passing Out Parade was not just a ceremonial event but a celebration of the perseverance and dedication of 311 trainees. Among them were 66 women and participants from friendly foreign nations, reflecting the inclusive and international nature of modern military training.
These newly commissioned officers now embark on a new journey, prepared to serve the nation and uphold the proud traditions of the Indian Navy.
