It is with profound sorrow that we inform you of the sad demise of Commander Ashok Balikai (Retd.), aged 70. He passed away peacefully at his residence in Bengaluru following a cardiac arrest. He had just returned from the Golden Jubilee Reunion at the National Defence Academy, held from 11–16 December 2025.

Cdr Ashok Balikai was an alumnus of Sainik School, Bijapur, and joined the 48th Course of the National Defence Academy in 1973, graduating in December 1975 with the 49th Course. A distinguished submariner, he specialised in Navigation and Direction (ND). He was deputed to HDW, Germany, in connection with SSK submarines and subsequently served onboard the Shishumar Class submarines as both the Executive Officer (XO) and Navigating Officer (NO).

During his tenure as XO of CGS Varuna, he played a pivotal role in the apprehension of a vessel involved in gold smuggling, for which he was formally honoured. He also undertook notable inland navigation missions on the Netravati and Sharavati rivers in Karnataka and was felicitated by the then Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Veerappa Moily.

An accomplished sportsman, he was a member of his school gymnastics team and earned a Half-Blue in Physical Training at the NDA.

The last rites were performed at Veerashaiva Rudra Bhoomi, Kannalli, on 18 December 2025 at 1130 hrs.

We pray to the almighty for providing solace to the departed soul and strength to his family.

Next of Kin: Mrs. Hema Balikai

Om Shanti

Team NFPC