ADM R HARI KUMAR, CHIEF OF THE NAVAL STAFF, VISITS ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR COMMAND (ANC)

Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Mrs Kala Hari Kumar, President (NWWA), visited the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) from 06 to 09 Feb 2024. They were warmly received in Port Blair by Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN), and Mrs Latha Saju, President DWWA (A&N Region).

During the visit, the CNS visited HQ ANC and received a comprehensive briefing on the role and significance of India’s only operational Joint Services Command. The CINCAN emphasised the geo-strategic potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, highlighting the ANC’s pivotal role in supporting military operations and contributing to the ‘Act East’ Policy.

Additionally, the CNS laid the foundation stone for sailors’ accommodation at Vijay Baugh in the presence of CINCAN and senior leadership of HQ ANC. He also inaugurated the Precision Approach Radar (PAR) at INS Utkrosh, a facility crucial for enabling highly accurate horizontal and vertical guidance to land aircraft safely in adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain and fog. Furthermore, the CNS inaugurated the Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and Surveillance System (IUHDSS) at Naval Jetty, Port Blair, thereby bolstering the security of Port Blair harbour.

During his visit to ANC units in the Northern and Southern Group of Islands, Adm R Hari Kumar, CNS, inaugurated the Naval Communication Network (NCN) Centres at INS Kohassa, INS Baaz, and INS Kardip, which will significantly enhance communication and operational capabilities of the ANC. The new NCN will facilitate real-time situational awareness and promote jointness in communication.

The CNS also took the opportunity to interact with personnel posted in various units and establishments across the Command, acknowledging their significant contributions to maritime security in the ANC. He lauded the efforts of ANC personnel in safeguarding national interests.