Pune: Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh took over as Commandant of the National Defence Academy (NDA) today, succeeding Vice Admiral Ajay Kocchar. An esteemed alumnus of NDA Khadakwasla, Vice Admiral Singh was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1990.
Vice Admiral Singh’s illustrious career spans several key appointments both afloat and ashore. As a Gunnery and Missiles specialist, he served on Indian Naval Ships Ranjit and Prahar. He has the unique distinction of being part of the commissioning crew for three Indian-built warships: INS Brahmaputra as Gunnery Officer, INS Shivalik as Executive Officer, and INS Kochi as Commanding Officer. His command experience includes INS Vidyut and INS Khukri. Additionally, he has been an instructor at INS Dronacharya (Gunnery School) and served as Deputy Commandant of the Naval War College, Goa. His staff tenures include roles at the Directorate of Personnel, Directorate of Naval Intelligence at NHQ, and the Indian Naval Work-up Team.
On 29 November 2022, Vice Admiral Singh assumed the role of Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, where he maintained a high level of operational readiness with a focus on the mission “Ordnance on Target.” Promoted to Vice Admiral on 15 January 2024, he was appointed Controller Personnel Services, where he spearheaded various initiatives to improve working conditions for naval personnel and the naval community.
Vice Admiral Singh’s accolades include the Admiral Katarı Trophy for standing first in the overall order of merit of his batch during initial training. Under his command, INS Khukri received the Chief of Naval Staff ‘Unit Citation’ in December 2011 for operational effectiveness and successful anti-piracy operations. He has also been awarded the FOC-in-C Commendation (2002), Nao Sena Medal (2020), and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2024).
His academic qualifications include an MSc and MPhil in Defence & Strategic Studies. He has completed the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington, Higher Command at Naval War College, and NDC courses in India. Internationally, he has attended the Maritime Intelligence Course at the National Intelligence University in Washington, and the United Nations Staff Officers Course in Stockholm, Sweden.
With Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh’s extensive experience in operations, training, and human resource management, the National Defence Academy is poised to benefit greatly under his leadership. His strategic vision and dedication are expected to further enhance the Academy’s prestige and operational excellence.
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