Latest news with #IndianNavy
The Print
3 hours ago
- General
- The Print
Ronie Chowpoo becomes first Arunachali to command Indian naval warship
Commander Chowpoo, a first-generation Indian Navy officer, was commissioned into the executive branch of the Navy in 2008. A specialist in communication and electronic warfare, he has served on various frontline warships, including guided missile destroyers and frigates, the statement said. His appointment marks an important milestone and serves as an inspiration to the youth of Arunachal Pradesh, it said. Itanagar, Jun 28 (PTI) Commander Ronie Chowpoo from Arunachal Pradesh's Namsai district has become the first officer from the state to command a frontline Indian naval warship in the Eastern Fleet, an official statement said on Saturday. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has held key operational and staff appointments at Naval headquarters, Fleet headquarters, and other strategic institutions, it added. An alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) Dehradun, and the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) Khadakwasla, Commander Chowpoo's professional journey reflects determination and excellence. His rise from the 'Land of the Rising Sun' to commanding a warship in the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet, also called the 'Sunrise Fleet', underscores a powerful story of perseverance and commitment, it said. Heartfelt congratulations have poured in for Commander Chowpoo and his family on this landmark accomplishment. PTI UPL UPL ACD This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
The Hindu
6 hours ago
- General
- The Hindu
From Korukonda to Kaliningrad: exemplary journey of a Sainik School product
Korukonda is a small town in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh. Many may not be knowing about this small town, but when it comes to the personnel from the armed forces, this is a revered name. It houses one of the top Sainik Schools in the country, which had come into existence in 1961. The school boasts of a proud alumni, which include officers like Lt Gen K. Surendra Nath, former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC (Army Training Command), Col. B. Santosh Babu, a recipient of Maha Vir Chakra (posthumous), and who was the Commanding officer of 16 Bihar Regiment and was martyred in the Galwan conflict with China, Malli Mastan Babu, mountaineer and world's fastest seven summiteer and Vice Admiral Murlidhar Sadashiv Pawar, former Deputy Chief of Naval Staff. Adding to the illustrious list of distinguished alumni is Captain Sridhar Tata, who also incidentally hails from Srikakulam district of A.P. Capt. Sridhar is the commanding officer of INS Tamal, the latest state-of-the-art stealth frigate, which will be inducted into the Indian Navy on July 1. It is reported to be the last of the imported naval vessels and was built in Kaliningrad in Russia. The ship, christened Tamal is the eighth of the Krivak class of stealth frigates inducted into the Navy in the past two decades and going by India's home grown push of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', it could presumably, be the last of naval asset from a foreign country. Capt. Sridhar has the unique distinction of leading a team of 250 Naval personnel in accepting and inducting the ship. He hails from a family with a rich defence background. His father, hailing from Chorlangi village of Srikakulam, and father-in-law from Vizianagaram served with distinction in the Indian Air Force for over 30 years and so have his brother and brothers'-in-law, who are holding top positions in the Armed Forces. Captain Sridhar will be creating a history by being the first 'Saikorian' — as the alumni of the school call themselves — to commission as Commanding Officer, a frigate or above size warship, that too abroad. He has a distinguished career of over 26 years in the Indian Navy and has served onboard 12 different warships, including commanding three of them, he has participated in Operation Vijay — Kargil conflict, Operation Parakram — post attack on the Parliament, Anti-Piracy operations amongst other notable missions and operations. He has been instrumental in shaping the Maritime Security of the nation as the founding member of Maritime Security Wing of National Security Council Secretariat under NSA Ajit Doval. Capt. Sridhar will leading one of the most advanced stealth frigate that the navy posses, INS Tamal will be carrying BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, the upgraded HUMGA NG Mk II sonar along with the anti-submarine weapon firing complex and a host of advanced communication and navigation equipment. The ship is also fitted with the latest Russian technology, including the upgraded Shtil vertical launched surface to air missile, an improved version of A190-01 100 MM gun, in addition to the standard 30 MM CIWS, heavyweight torpedoes, urgent attack anti-submarine rockets, and a multitude of surveillance and fire control systems. The Saikorians are in an upbeat mood, as Capt Sridhar is one among them who makes the school proud once again.
India Gazette
14 hours ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Indian Navy officers honoured with Gallantry awards at Naval Investiture Ceremony
New Delhi [India], June 28 (ANI): The Naval Investiture Ceremony, held at Nausena Bhawan, honoured several personnel of the Indian Navy with gallantry awards for their exemplary service. The awards were conferred to honour and recognise bravery, leadership, professional achievement, and distinguished service of Naval Personnel. A total of 51 personnel were conferred with awards during the ceremony, which included one Yudh Seva Medal, thirteen Nausena Medals (Gallantry), eight Nausena Medals (Devotion to Duty), and seventeen Vishisht Seva Medals. On being conferred with the Nausena Medal (Gallantry), Lieutenant Commander Vaibhav Tyagi said, 'This award has been given to me for the mission rescue which we conducted in the Red Sea. This was on March 6, 2024. During the Houthis' attack, the crew of the merchant vessel True Confidence sustained injuries after being hit by a missile... As the Indian Navy, we were the first responders to this situation... The entire merchant vessel was on fire... The 21 crew of the vessel were in a small boat and were injured and adrift in the open sea... The location was not known, but they needed immediate assistance... We located the boat and evacuated them...' The ceremony underscored the Indian Navy's critical role in ensuring maritime security amid rising threats. Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi congratulated the awardees and remarked that this occasion is of special significance, as it represents a formal acknowledgement by the Indian Navy of the conspicuous acts of gallantry and devotion to duty of its personnel. Commodore Kartik Srimal, conferred with the Yudh Seva Medal, highlighted the operation's scope, stating, 'After the Israel-Hamas conflict spread into the maritime domain, several merchant ships were under attack. Indian Navy launched Operation Sankalp, and the aim was to deter piracy, drone and missile attacks, and to ensure the safety of our maritime crew... This operation was done over an area of 51 lakh square kilometres, which included the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea, parts of the South and West Indian Ocean... That is one and a half times the land mass of India. It was an unprecedented operation for which about 21 ships were deployed with about 5,000 personnel... We were required to discern the patterns of piracy attacks, the tactics they were using, the places where the fishermen were getting hit, the kind of hot spots for drone and missile attacks, and then do an analysis to derive some meaningful input. The area was very large, and we pressed our naval aviation assets so that they could carry out reconnaissance. We were getting inputs from many sources. There were international organisations, merchant ships, fishermen, our own ships, and aircraft giving us inputs... We were required to collate all these inputs and get something actionable...' Lieutenant Commander Saurabh Malik, awarded the Nausena Medal (Gallantry), recounted his mission on February 2, 2022, saying, '... Our Operation took place on February 2, 2022. A fishing vessel was hijacked by Somali pirates. There were 20 fishermen. The vessel was hijacked and was being taken to Somalia. Our ship, INS Sharda, intercepted that vessel. Our team of eight people approached the vessel in a rubber boat... We were able to close in quickly... The pirates had killed one fisherman already, but we were able to save the rest of the 19 fishermen.' The ceremony was also attended by the families of the awardees and senior dignitaries from the Indian Navy. The ceremony concluded with a Dinner hosted by the Chief of the Naval Staff for the awardees and their families, and a reaffirmation of the Navy's motto of 'Safeguarding National Maritime Interests - Anytime-Anywhere'. (ANI)
India Gazette
18 hours ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
India's evolved appraoch to treat act of terror as war adds new dimension to operational outlook: Navy Chief Admiral Tripathi
New Delhi [India], June 27 (ANI): Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on Friday underlined India's evolving security landscape and the Indian Navy's preparedness to counter emerging threats. He said that the country's evolved approach to treat any act of terror as an act of war has added a new dimension to our operational outlook. Speaking at the Naval Investiture Ceremony 2025, held at Nausena Bhawan, Admiral Tripathi emphasised the vital role of naval personnel and their unwavering dedication to duty, stating that the Indian Navy's true power rests not in its advanced technology but in the spirit, skill, and commitment of its people. 'India's evolved approach to treat any act of terror as an act of war, has added a new dimension to our operational outlook. Today, a notice to motoring could well be a notice to conflict, and we must be prepared for this new normal,' he said. Recalling Operation Sindoor, he said Indian naval assets were swiftly deployed, showcasing operational readiness that helped deter adversarial actions. 'You all are well aware that during Operation Sindoor, our ships, submarines, and aircraft were operationally ready and deployed, projecting strength and preparedness to deter any potential actions from our Western adversary. This rapid and measured response not only showcased our strategic reach and maritime dominance but also sent a clear message of resolve, forcing our adversary to plead for a ceasefire ... I would say, just in time!' he added. Describing the Navy as the fastest-growing arm of India's defence forces, Admiral Tripathi highlighted its induction of cutting-edge platforms -- from unmanned systems and space-based assets to AI-powered technologies. 'The fastest-growing service, the Indian Navy is continuously enhancing its operational capabilities by embracing cutting-edge technologies and inducting state-of-the-art ships, submarines, aircraft, unmanned systems, space-based assets, and AI-driven platforms,' he said. Speaking at the Naval Investiture Ceremony, Navy Chief Admiral Tripathi said, 'Our greatest asset, therefore, is not the steel of our warships or the sophistication of our machines, but rather the skill, spirit and commitment of our trained and dedicated workforce. It is their professionalism and dedication that can transform capability into combat power, and platforms into instruments of national resolve.' Admiral Tripathi also extended his congratulations to the medal recipients and units honoured for their distinguished service, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship. 'I am delighted to be part of the Naval Investiture Ceremony 2025. At the outset, I would like to congratulate all the award winners, recipients of Unit Citations and Green Practices Trophy, for their commitment, hard work, diligence and dedication, in service of our Navy and the nation,' he said. 'The grandeur of this occasion perfectly reflects the honours we confer today, on the most deserving. Each medal awarded, each citation read, is not merely a recognition of gallantry, devotion to duty, and professional excellence; it stands as a powerful symbol of the Navy's enduring spirit, courage under fire, and unwavering commitment to service before self,' said Admiral Tripathi. Adding further, he said, 'Our awardees have demonstrated, what it truly means to serve with honour - whether in challenging operations at sea; executing complex missions in the air; conducting silent patrols beneath the sea; pursuing operational excellence or championing environmental stewardship, their actions embody the very essence of our Navy's ethos.' The Navy Chief said, 'As we navigate an era filled with complex and rapidly changing global security environment, the role of the Indian Navy is more critical than ever. The shifting geopolitical and geostrategic landscape, along with various ongoing conflicts worldwide, has significantly increased the frequency, diversity, and complexity of our tasks.' He said, 'As the fastest-growing service, the Indian Navy is continuously enhancing its operational capabilities by embracing cutting-edge technologies and inducting state-of-the-art ships, submarines, aircraft, unmanned systems, space-based assets, and Al-driven platforms. But, while technology and platforms are critical enablers, it is the personnel behind these systems, their professionalism and never-say-die spirit, that ensures our collective success.' 'Our greatest asset, therefore, is not the steel of our warships or the sophistication of our machines, but rather the skill, spirit and commitment, of our trained and dedicated work force. It is their professionalism and dedication that can transform capability into combat power, and platforms into instruments of national resolve,' said Admiral Tripathi. The Admiral said that the navy personnel have always risen to the occasion, countering every challenge with determination and tactical acumen and that their selfless service and unwavering commitment has brought laurels for the Indian Navy, and to our nation, time and again. He also mentioned about the significance of deep research and in-depth analysis in today's day and age. Emphasising the value of intellectual depth in modern warfare, the Navy Chief cited Voltaire, and said, 'No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking,' and encouraged continued emphasis on research, innovation and tactical agility. Emphasising the value of intellectual depth in modern warfare, the Navy Chief cited Voltaire, and said, 'As one of the award categories today aptly highlights, it is only through intellectual rigour, professional reading, and innovative thinking that we can stay tactically agile and operationally sharp. I will repeat what Voltaire had once said---'No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking.' To the officers and sailors, Admiral Tripathi said, 'Your achievements inspire us all. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all medal recipients and nine units for their well-deserved recognition. Your conduct reflects the very best of naval tradition, and serves to remind us that excellence is not just an act, but a habit. I will urge you to keep pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for others to follow.' Admiral Tripathi also expressed gratitude to the families of the navy personnel and said, 'Your constant support, strength, and encouragement are the unseen anchors that keep our personnel steady and resolute. Today's honours are as much yours as they are theirs. I congratulate and thank each one of you.' He also complimented the CPS and his Team for this well-planned and conducted maiden Investiture Ceremony at Nausena Bhawan. 'Let this Ceremony at new Nausena Bhawan be remembered not just as an event of honour and recognition, but as a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to professional excellence and our duty to the Nation,' he said. 'May the spirit of service before self, continue to guide each one of us as we nurture a Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive and Future Ready Indian Navy - ready to protect and promote India's maritime interests - Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow,' concluded Admiral Tripathi. (ANI)
India Gazette
18 hours ago
- General
- India Gazette
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi presents service awards to 51 naval personnel at Investiture Ceremony
New Delhi [India], June 27 (ANI): Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, presented Gallantry and Distinguished Service Awards to Naval Personnel at the Naval Investiture Ceremony held for the first time at the newly constructed Nausena Bhawan in Delhi on Friday. The awards were conferred to honour and recognise bravery, leadership, professional achievement and distinguished service of Naval Personnel. A total of 51 personnel were conferred with awards during the ceremony,y which included one Yudh Seva Medal, thirteen Nausena Medals (Gallantry), eight Nausena Medals (Devotion to Duty) and seventeen Vishisht Seva Medals. During the ceremony, CNS also presented the Jeevan Raksha Padak to Dharambir Singh Negi, Ex-PO EL(P) for saving a person from drowning in Hindon Canal on 15 July 2024; Capt Ravi Dhir Memorial Medal for promoting Flight Safety; and Lt VK Jain Memorial Medal for outstanding research in the field of electronics, computers and applied sources. The CNS Trophy for Best Green Practice was awarded to Material Organisation (Vizag) in the industrial category and to INS Shivaji in the non-industrial category, respectively. The CNS also presented Unit Citations to various units for their outstanding service over the past year. The recipients in the Operational Units category were INS Shivalik, Trishul, Karna, and Flight Squadron INAS 316. The recipients in the category of shore establishments were INS Satavahana, Rajali, and Tunir. Indian Navy Captain Rajababu Sharma spoke to ANI and said, '... I received the Navy Gallantry award for my service on INS Sumitra when we were deployed in the Gulf of Aden as a part of Operation Sankalp and the anti-piracy operation. It was a memorable and nerve-wrecking experience... 11 Somali pirates took 36 hostages for 22 days... We rescued them through our operational manoeuvres... They were forced to surrender without harming any hostages...' After being conferred with the Nausena Gallantry Award, Lieutenant Commander Vaibhav Tyagi said, 'This award has been given to me for the mission rescue which we conducted in the Red Sea. This was on March 6, 2024. During the Houthis' attack, the crew of the merchant vessel True Confidence sustained injuries after being hit by a missile... As the Indian Navy, we were the first responders to this situation... The entire merchant vessel was on fire... The 21 crew of the vessel were in a small boat and were injured and adrift in the open sea... The location was not known, but they needed immediate assistance... We located the boat and evacuated them...' Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi congratulated the awardees and remarked that this occasion is of special significance, as it represents a formal acknowledgement by the Indian Navy of the conspicuous acts of gallantry and devotion to duty of its personnel. The ceremony was also attended by the families of the awardees and senior dignitaries from the Indian Navy. The ceremony concluded with a Dinner hosted by the Chief of the Naval Staff for the awardees and their families, and a reaffirmation of the Navy's motto of 'Safeguarding National Maritime Interests - Anytime-Anywhere'. (ANI)
