In a solemn and prestigious ceremony held at INS Hansa, Goa, on April 14, 2024, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), conferred Gallantry and Distinguished Service awards to Naval personnel on behalf of the Honorable President of India.
The Naval Investiture Ceremony served as a platform to honor and recognize the bravery, leadership, professional achievements, and distinguished service of the men and women serving in the Indian Navy.
A total of 35 Naval personnel were bestowed with various awards, each symbolizing their extraordinary contributions and commitment to duty. Among the recipients were distinguished officers who displayed exemplary valor and gallantry in the face of adversity.
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Notable awardees included Cdr Manish Singh Karki, Cdr Kaustab Banerjee, Lt Cdr Panneerselvam Vishnu Prasanna, and Lt Cdr Bhaskar, who were honored with the prestigious Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry).
In addition to recognizing acts of bravery, the ceremony also celebrated excellence in research and innovation within the Navy. Admiral R Hari Kumar presented the Lt VK Jain Memorial Gold Medal for pioneering research in the field of Weapon Improvement and Electrical Engineering, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of individuals advancing technological capabilities.
The Capt Ravi Dhir Memorial Gold Medal was conferred to honor efforts in promoting Flight Safety, highlighting the Navy’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its personnel.
Furthermore, the CNS Trophy for Best Green Practices 2023 was awarded to Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, and INS Valsura in the industrial and non-industrial categories, respectively.
This recognition underscores the Navy’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible practices in its operations and infrastructure.
Unit Citations were also presented to Naval units for their outstanding service and exemplary performance over the past year. Indian Naval Ships Teg, Kolkata, Karmuk, Sumedha, Sumitra, and Sharda, submarine INS Sindhukesari, flight squadron INAS 550, and shore establishments Chilka, Circars, Eksila, Dronacharya, and Naval Ship Repair Yard (Karwar) were among the recipients of this prestigious honor.
The ceremony was attended by the spouses and families of the awardees, adding a personal touch to the solemn occasion. Senior officers of the Indian Navy also graced the event, underscoring the significance of the awards and the achievements of the recipients.
In his address, Admiral R Hari Kumar commended the award winners for their acts of bravery and distinguished service, recognizing their unwavering dedication and commitment to upholding the highest traditions of the Indian Navy.
He also extended his appreciation to the family members of the awardees for their steadfast support and sacrifice, acknowledging their integral role in the success and achievements of the Naval personnel.
The Naval Investiture Ceremony at INS Hansa, Goa, served as a poignant reminder of the valor, professionalism, and dedication displayed by the men and women of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and upholding its security and sovereignty.
