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.

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.

In a significant development aimed at enhancing the living standards of sailors in the Delhi-NCR region, Admiral R Hari Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, Chief of the Naval Staff, inaugurated two new married sailor’s accommodations on April 12, 2024.

Named “Megh Nath” and “Chakravarty,” these accommodations mark a substantial stride towards addressing the shortage of married Dwelling Units at Naval Delhi Station.

The inauguration ceremony, held at Naraina Bagh, was attended by dignitaries, naval personnel, and members of the local community.

Admiral R Hari Kumar, in his address, underscored the importance of providing comfortable living quarters for sailors and their families, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to their well-being.

The newly inaugurated accommodations consist of two blocks, with “Megh Nath” comprising 48 dwelling units and “Chakravarty” comprising 24 dwelling units. Each unit is equipped with modern amenities and facilities to ensure the comfort and convenience of naval personnel and their families.

The construction of these accommodations reflects the Navy’s proactive approach to addressing the housing needs of its personnel, particularly in high-demand areas like the Delhi-NCR region.

By providing quality housing, the Navy aims to enhance the morale and welfare of its sailors, enabling them to focus more effectively on their duties and responsibilities.

In his remarks, Admiral R Hari Kumar commended the efforts of all involved in the planning and execution of the project, noting that the completion of the accommodations demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its personnel.

He expressed confidence that the new facilities would contribute significantly to the overall well-being and satisfaction of naval families stationed in Delhi-NCR.

The inauguration ceremony also served as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of sailors and their families to the Navy’s mission.

Their dedication and sacrifice play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and upholding the principles of security and sovereignty.

Moving forward, the Navy remains committed to further enhancing the living standards of its personnel across all its stations and installations.

Initiatives like the inauguration of “Megh Nath” and “Chakravarty” underscore the Navy’s unwavering dedication to supporting its personnel and their families, ensuring their welfare and happiness remain top priorities.

As the Indian Navy continues to modernize and expand its capabilities, investments in infrastructure and welfare initiatives like these will play a crucial role in strengthening the organization and enabling it to fulfill its duties with excellence and distinction.

In a vibrant display of camaraderie and wellness, INS Rajali, the naval air station located in Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu, marked the Year of Naval Civilians with a rejuvenating yoga session on April 12, 2024.

The event, aimed at promoting healthy living among the Naval Civilians of the unit, saw over 75 enthusiastic participants embracing the benefits of yoga and pranayama.

Against the backdrop of the serene surroundings of INS Rajali, participants gathered to partake in the ancient practice of yoga, renowned for its holistic approach to physical and mental well-being.

Led by experienced instructors, the yoga session encompassed a series of postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques designed to rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and uplift the spirit.

The event not only served as an opportunity for Naval Civilians to engage in physical activity and relaxation but also fostered a sense of community and unity within the unit.

As participants synchronized their breath with movement, they were reminded of the importance of prioritizing self-care and maintaining a balanced lifestyle amidst the demands of their professional responsibilities.

Commemorating the Year of Naval Civilians, the yoga session at INS Rajali underscored the Indian Navy’s commitment to promoting the health and well-being of its personnel, both uniformed and civilian.

By encouraging the adoption of healthy habits and stress-relief techniques, the Navy aims to create a supportive and conducive environment for all its members to thrive and excel.

In addition to the physical benefits of yoga, participants also reaped the rewards of mental clarity, improved focus, and heightened inner awareness.

As they delved deeper into their practice, the serene ambiance of INS Rajali provided the perfect backdrop for introspection and self-discovery, fostering a sense of inner peace and harmony.

The event also highlighted the Navy’s recognition of the invaluable contributions made by its civilian workforce. From administrative staff to technical experts, Naval Civilians play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of naval operations, providing vital support across a myriad of functions and departments.

As the yoga session drew to a close, participants departed with a renewed sense of vitality and purpose, ready to face the challenges of the day with renewed vigor and determination.

The success of the event served as a testament to the Navy’s commitment to holistic wellness and its unwavering support for the health and happiness of its personnel.

INS Rajali’s initiative to promote healthy living through yoga not only embodies the spirit of the Year of Naval Civilians but also reflects the Navy’s enduring ethos of care, compassion, and camaraderie.

As the unit continues to uphold these values, it remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests and uphold the proud legacy of the Indian Navy.