Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar Embarks on Visit to Andaman and Nicobar Command
In a significant development, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), accompanied by Mrs. Kala Hari Kumar, President of the Naval Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), embarked on a four-day visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) from February 6 to 9, 2024.
Upon their arrival in Port Blair, they were warmly received by Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN), and Mrs. Latha Saju, President of the Defence Wives Welfare Association (DWWA) for the A&N Region.
During his visit, Admiral R Hari Kumar visited the ANC headquarters, where he received a comprehensive briefing on the pivotal role and strategic importance of India’s sole operational Joint Services Command. Emphasizing the geostrategic significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the CNS underscored the ANC’s role in bolstering military operations and advancing India’s ‘Act East’ Policy.
Among the notable events during the visit, Admiral R Hari Kumar laid the foundation stone for sailors’ accommodation at Vijay Baugh, in the presence of CINCAN and senior leadership of HQ ANC. Additionally, he inaugurated the Precision Approach Radar (PAR) at INS Utkrosh, a crucial facility enhancing aircraft landing safety during adverse weather conditions.
Moreover, the CNS inaugurated the Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and Surveillance System (IUHDSS) at the Naval Jetty in Port Blair, thereby bolstering the security of Port Blair harbour.
In a bid to bolster communication and operational capabilities, Admiral R Hari Kumar inaugurated the Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres at INS Kohassa, INS Baaz, and INS Kardip, located in the Northern and Southern Group of Islands. The new NCN is expected to augment real-time situational awareness and foster jointness in communication.
Throughout the visit, the CNS interacted with personnel stationed across various units and establishments within the ANC, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to maritime security. He commended their dedication towards safeguarding national interests.
On the sidelines, Mrs. Kala Hari Kumar engaged with the spouses of ANC personnel during a special Defence Wives Welfare Association Day event and visited the NWWA Kendra. She also inaugurated the VC facility ‘Saksham’ at the Navy Children School in Port Blair, further strengthening community ties within the ANC.
