New Delhi/Chilika: Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan Friday referred to the revamped Agnipath in his address at the Passing Out Parade of the ninth batch of its Agniveers at INS Chilka, saying that they now have an “additional opportunity” to become a regular sailor.
“With 3,358 trainees passing out in a single batch, this is the largest single batch ever at (INS) Chilka. Among them are 142 women Agniveers, who today become role models for millions. Somewhere in a small town or village, a young girl watching them will say, ‘I also wish to do this’,” the admiral said.
The premier naval training establishment in Odisha witnessed a grand parade of ‘batch 02/26’, marking the successful completion of ab initio training of 3,358 trainees.
“The batch comprised 2,756 Agniveers, including 142 women Agniveers, 286 medical assistants of the Indian Navy and 316 Naviks of the Indian Coast Guard,” it said.
The Navy chief was the chief guest on the occasion and the reviewing officer at the parade.
“Remember, you are among a select few who have earned the privilege of wearing this uniform. Of the lakhs of young aspirants that applied, only about 1.5 per cent made it through. You are among them. You have earned your place through a very competitive selection process. And you are joining the Navy at a particularly opportune time,” the admiral said.
The top officer said he also needed to mention that during their training at INS Chilka, there has been an “important addition to the Agnipath scheme.”
“You now have an additional opportunity to become a regular sailor and build a long and rewarding career in the Indian Navy. I would encourage each one of you to aim for it and pursue a full career in the Service,” he said.
“The Navy can offer you the opportunity, but you must earn it through your performance, conduct, behaviour, commitment and competitiveness. So, work hard from day one, make the most of every facility and opportunity you get, and strive to be among the best,” the admiral said.
In a major overhaul of the military recruitment scheme, the government on November 4 announced that Agniveers set to exit the military at the end of their four-year tenure will be given a two-year extension and subsequent permanent recruitment, subject to meeting specific eligibility criteria.
Under the Agnipath scheme initiated in June, 2022, soldiers were recruited for a four-year term, with a provision to retain only 25 per cent of them in regular services.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen N S Raja Subramani announced the changes to the scheme, just over three weeks before around 18,300 Agniveers were to exit the armed forces.
At the parade, the Navy chief said the hard work and dedication of the trainees are “clearly evident today.”
The parade marked a “significant milestone” in the careers of the trainees, who are now “poised to join the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard as disciplined, proficient and motivated sea warriors, ready to embrace the challenges of life at sea,” he said.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, and Southern Naval Command, attended the parade.
The proceedings commenced with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Chilka War Memorial in tribute to the martyrs. The parade followed.
In his address, the reviewing officer complimented the trainees for their immaculate turnout and very high standards of drill.
He exhorted them to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and professionalism, adapt to the evolving demands of maritime operations and discharge their duties with pride and an unwavering commitment to the nation.
The top naval officer felicitated meritorious performers with trophies and medals.
A valedictory function showcasing the training activities and achievements of the passing-out batch was held on Thursday.
Marakkar Division was awarded the Overall Championship Trophy, while Shivaji Division secured the runner-up position. Distinguished veterans and meritorious trainees were also felicitated on the occasion.
The day also saw the unveiling of ‘Ankur’, the bilingual trainees’ magazine of INS Chilka, chronicling the experiences, achievements and memorable moments of the batch during its training journey.