Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, AVSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command (FOCINC ENC), accompanied by Mrs. Sandhya Rao Pendharkar, President of the Naval Wives Welfare Association (NWWA – Eastern Region), had the distinct honor of calling upon the Hon’ble President of India and Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The ceremonial visit, held on May 3rd, 2024, underscored the enduring bond between the Indian Navy and the highest office of the country, reaffirming the naval leadership’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests under the purview of the “Sunrise Command.”
During the meeting, Vice Admiral Pendharkar conveyed the unwavering resolve of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) to uphold the sovereignty and security of India’s vast maritime domain.
He emphasized the pivotal role played by the ENC in safeguarding vital sea lanes of communication, promoting maritime trade, and ensuring maritime security in the strategically significant Eastern seaboard.
Mrs. Sandhya Rao Pendharkar, representing the Naval Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region), extended her gratitude to Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu for her unwavering support and encouragement to the families of naval personnel serving in the Eastern Naval Command.
She highlighted the association’s efforts in fostering camaraderie and providing welfare support to naval families, thereby contributing to the holistic well-being of the naval community.
In response, Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu commended the Eastern Naval Command for its exemplary service and dedication to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
She lauded the professionalism and commitment of the men and women of the Indian Navy in ensuring maritime security and promoting regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The meeting served as a platform to discuss various initiatives undertaken by the Eastern Naval Command to enhance operational readiness, maritime surveillance capabilities, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts.
Vice Admiral Pendharkar reiterated the ENC’s readiness to respond swiftly and effectively to any maritime contingencies, including natural disasters and security challenges.
The ceremonial visit concluded with Vice Admiral Pendharkar expressing gratitude to Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu for her gracious hospitality and steadfast support to the Indian Navy.
The exchange of pleasantries and reaffirmation of commitments underscored the strong bond between the Indian Navy and the highest constitutional office, reflecting the shared commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and upholding its maritime security objectives.
