Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM, assumed command of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) as its 19th Commander-in-Chief (CINCAN) on 01 October 2025, marking a significant leadership transition at India’s only Joint Services Command.
To commemorate the occasion, he laid a wreath at Bayonet Square in honour of the fallen heroes and reviewed a ceremonial Guard of Honour at ANC. A highly accomplished and seasoned Flag Officer, Vice Admiral Kochhar brings with him a wealth of operational expertise and strategic vision.
Over the course of his distinguished naval career, he has commanded frontline warships, spearheaded critical operational and training assignments, and served in pivotal leadership positions including Assistant Controller of Carrier Projects (ACCP), Assistant Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition (ACWP&A), Commandant of the National Defence Academy (NDA), and Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command.
Through these roles, Vice Admiral Kochhar has played an instrumental part in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities, advancing naval modernisation, and enhancing joint operational readiness.
His leadership at the Andaman & Nicobar Command is expected to further bolster India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region and reinforce the nation’s maritime security architecture.
