Surgeon Rear Admiral M Ilankumaran assumed charge as the Command Medical Officer (CMO) of Headquarters Southern Naval Command (HQSNC) on May 19, 2026, succeeding Surgeon Rear Admiral Samir Kapoor, VSM.
An alumnus of Madurai Medical College, the Flag Officer was commissioned into the Indian Navy on June 30, 1993.
During a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades, Surg RAdm Ilankumaran has commanded INHS Patanjali and held several important staff appointments at the Western Naval Command and Naval Headquarters.
A renowned specialist in Community Medicine, he brings extensive expertise in public health, preventive medicine, and medical administration to the appointment.
Prior to taking over as Command Medical Officer of Southern Naval Command, he served as Executive Officer of INHS Asvini, Mumbai.
The appointment reflects the continued emphasis of the Armed Forces Medical Services on strengthening operational healthcare leadership and medical support capabilities across naval commands.
