Admiral R Hari Kumar assumes charge as 25th Chief of the Naval Staff

Admiral R Hari Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC assumed command of the Indian Navy on Tuesday  as the 25th Chief of the Naval Staff. He succeeds Admiral Karambir Singh, PVSM, AVSM, ADC who retires upon superannuation, after an illustrious career, spanning over forty one years, in the Indian Navy. Admiral R Hari Kumar is an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. He was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 January 1983.Talking to reporters, Admiral Hari Kumar said, it is a matter of great honour for him to take charge as the Chief of Naval Staff of Indian Navy. He said, the focus of Indian Navy's is on national maritime interests and maritime security challenges.

 He was the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command at Mumbai, prior taking over helm as Chief of the Naval Staff. Admiral R. Hari Kumar was commissioned on 1st January 1983 into the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy. During his long and distinguished service spanning nearly 39 years, he has served in a variety of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. He has been decorated with the Param Vishist Seva Medal, Ati Vishist Seva Medal and Vishist Seva Medal. He has also served as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to The Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) at the critical junction during the creation of the institution of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Department of Military Affairs (DMA).