Port Blair, Mar 04: Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), and Mrs. Shashi Tripathi, President NWWA, visited the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) from 01 to 04 March 2025.
On arrival at Sri Vijaya Puram, they were received by Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, PVSM, AVSM, VM, CINCAN, and accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at INS Utkrosh. The CNS then visited Headquarters ANC, where he was briefed by CINCAN on the Command’s role and operational readiness, which has evolved over the past 24 years. He also called on Admiral DK Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd), Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
On 02 March, the CNS visited INS Kohassa, where he interacted with naval personnel and inaugurated MAFI Phase-I, enabling the operationalization of TACAN & DVOR/DME, significantly enhancing the station’s operational efficiency.
On 03 March, CNS visited Air Force Station Car Nicobar, where he paid homage at the Tsunami Memorial, remembering the personnel and families who lost their lives during the 26 December 2004 Tsunami. Later, he visited INS Kardip, where he interacted with sailors and inaugurated sailors’ accommodation ‘Kailash’ for in-living personnel. Mrs. Shashi Tripathi inaugurated the renovated Naval Primary School (NPS) Kardip and appreciated the enhancements. The day concluded with a visit to INS Baaz, where CNS interacted with naval personnel and inaugurated sailors’ accommodation ‘Baazeecha’, enhancing the quality of life at the remote station.
As part of infrastructure and welfare initiatives, CNS laid the foundation stone for a Naval Model Complex named, ‘Nanda Hall’ at Phoenix Bay, which will showcase the history of naval aviation and the growth of naval shipbuilding capabilities. At INS Utkrosh, he inaugurated a new in-living Officers’ Mess. Additionally, 25 Pre-Fab Dwelling Units at Vijay Baugh were inaugurated, providing much-needed transit accommodation for sailors at Sri Vijaya Puram. Meanwhile, President NWWA inaugurated a Ladies’ Gym at NWWA Kendra and the Maritime Heritage room named as, ‘Nancowry’ at Samudrika Museum, Phoenix Bay describing the evolution of Bharat’s maritime history since ancient times to date.
Before departing for Delhi, the CNS addressed Joint Services personnel at Dweepika Auditorium and outlying units via video conference, commending their dedication in safeguarding the nation’s maritime frontiers. He lauded ANC’s pivotal role in strengthening operational readiness in the region. The visit concluded with a solemn tribute at Sankalp Smarak, honouring the unwavering spirit and sacrifices of those who served in the islands.
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