The Indian Navy recruits Agniveers in two primary categories: Agniveer Senior Secondary Recruit (SSR) for candidates who have passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and Agniveer Matric Recruit (MR) for candidates who have passed Class 10 for roles such as Chef, Steward, and Hygienist. Each category has different educational requirements and the written examination content varies accordingly.

After the 4-year service period, approximately 25% of Agniveers in the Navy are selected for permanent retention in the regular Indian Navy based on their performance during service, disciplinary record, fitness assessments, and merit. Those retained receive full Regular Navy service benefits including pension. The remaining 75% receive the Seva Nidhi tax-free corpus of approximately Rs 11.71 lakh and can apply for priority recruitment in CAPF, state police, and other government organisations.

The Navy Agniveer SSR written examination tests Science (Physics and Chemistry at Class 12 level), Mathematics (Class 12 level including calculus and algebra), English (grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension), and General Knowledge (current affairs, Indian history, geography, and defence knowledge). The exam consists of 100 questions to be attempted in 60 minutes. Negative marking of 0.25 per wrong answer applies, so accuracy is more important than attempting all questions blindly.

Navy Agniveer candidates must meet minimum height of 157 cm (with relaxation for specific categories like cook/steward/hygienist), weight proportionate to height, and chest expansion of at least 5 cm. During the physical fitness test, candidates must complete a 1.6 km run within 7 minutes, 20 squats, and 10 push-ups. Eyesight requirements for SSR are 6/6 correctable to 6/6; colour perception (CP-III) is required for certain technical trades.

SSR Agniveers in the Indian Navy can be deployed in various technical and operational roles aboard naval ships and shore establishments. They may work as communication operators, electronic warfare operators, sonar operators, radar operators, or in electrical/mechanical departments. Their training at INS Chilka followed by sea training prepares them for shipboard duties. The experience gained during 4 years of service at sea builds valuable technical and leadership skills applicable in both military and civilian careers.