Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 01: Lieutenant General Dinesh Singh Rana PVSM, AVSM, YSM, SM, PhD handed over command of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) on 30 Sep 2025 after a distinguished tenure marked by notable achievements in operational preparedness, infrastructure development and outreach to the local populace. He now proceeds to assume command of the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) on 01 Oct 2025.
The CINCAN extended heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Union Territory Administration for their unwavering support which enabled smooth execution of operational responsibilities and welfare initiatives.
During his tenure, ANC undertook several initiatives enhancing operational preparedness, integration and development across the Andaman and Nicobar Island. The maiden national integration tour ‘Dweep to Delhi’, a welfare measure in which 30 meritorious students from tribal communities undertook a tour to the National Capital to meet the Hon’ble President, Raksha Mantri, CDS and COAS was launched, significantly enhancing social connect of the Island with the mainland.
ANC also implemented a bulk messaging system from Joint Operations Centre Sri Vijaya Puram for rapid dissemination of safety, security, Health and whether alerts including Tsunami warning to defence personnel, families and civilians across the Area of Responsibility through SMS.
The ANC addressed long standing bottlenecks in infrastructure development at forward operating bases. The CINCAN ensured that project delayed for year due to environmental clearances-some extending up to eight years-were actively pursued, and OTR Ports at Kamorta and Campbell Bay were declared Strategic Projects on 18 Sep 2025 by the Department of Defence with approval of the Defence Secretary, enabling exemption from Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and environmental clearances and paving the way for their timely execution.
The ANC ensured realistic joint training and enhanced operational coordination with foreign navies through Joint Coordinated Patrols (CORPAT), reinforcing its role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
ANC also conducted the Dweep Diksha Dialogue 25, a seminar on “Evolution of ANC as a Strategic Hub & Beyond”, which saw participation from distinguished commanders, diplomats, veterans, scholars and strategists who deliberated on the changing character of warfare, grey zone challenges and India’s maritime vision in the Indo-Pacific.
During this period, ANC pursued the inclusion of five critical projects under PM Gati Shakti Yojna—runway extensions at INS Baaz and INS Kohassa, road and protection wall at Air Force Station Carnicobar, road connectivity in North Andaman and upgradation of fuel storage facilities-laying the foundation for faster execution of projects vital to India’s security architecture in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
On relinquishing command, Lt Gen Dinesh Singh Rana assued that ANC is well poised to meet further challenges. The CINCAN affirmed that the foundations laid for enhanced integration and operational excellence will grow stronger under further leadership.
He extended his deepest thanks to all ranks and stakeholders for their guidance and support. Looking ahead to his new assignment, he pledged to continue working towards improving the combat capability and efficiency of the Armed Forces as he assumes charge of the Strategic Forces Command.
To mark the conclusion of his command he laid a wreath at Military Station Brichgung and reviewed a ceremonial Joint Forces Guard of Honour at INS Utkrosh on 30 Sep 2025.
His steadfast leadership, dedication and commitment will remain a source of inspiration for all ranks of the ANC.
