Visakhapatnam: Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), along with Kala Hari Kumar, President of the Naval Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), embarked on a significant three-day visit to the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) in Visakhapatnam from March 21 to March 23, 2024.
During the visit, Admiral R Hari Kumar participated in a series of engagements aimed at enhancing operational readiness and welfare initiatives within the Eastern Naval Command. Notable activities included the CNS Day at Sea, where Admiral Kumar reviewed naval operations at sea, interacting with officers and sailors aboard ships and aircraft of the Eastern Naval Command.
As part of his farewell visit, Admiral Kumar engaged in candid discussions with naval officers and sailors at the Samudrika Auditorium through a unique event titled “Connect with CNS,” providing an opportunity to address challenges and issues at the grassroots level. He also interacted with Defence Civilian personnel at the Meghadri Auditorium, Naval Dockyard, gaining insights into their perspectives and concerns.
In a significant development, Admiral Kumar inaugurated the ‘Veeram’ accommodation block, a 492-men facility constructed for Defence Security Corps (DSC) personnel at Naushakti Nagar, Visakhapatnam, on March 21, 2024.
During the visit, Admiral Kumar awarded an on-the-spot Unit Citation to INS Sumitra for its successful conduct of Anti-Piracy Operations in the Central Arabian Sea. The ship’s swift action led to the apprehension of 11 Somali Pirates and the rescue of 17 Iranian and 19 Pakistani nationals from hijacked fishing vessels Iman and Al Naeemi, showcasing the Indian Navy’s operational prowess.
Presiding over the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of NGIF/INBA and the Navy Foundation, Admiral Kumar facilitated fruitful discussions aimed at enhancing the welfare and motivation of naval personnel. Additionally, he presided over the 31st AGM and GCM for Navy Foundation, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to addressing the concerns of the veterans’ community.
In parallel, an event named “Samanvay” facilitated formal deliberations between office-bearers and representatives of Navy Foundation Chapters and Veteran Sailors Forum Charters, further strengthening collaboration and camaraderie within the naval community.