21st September, 2003
Ministry of Defence  


APPOINTMENTS OF FLAG RANKS IN THE NAVY


Consequent upon the retirement of Vice Admiral John C DeSilva, who relinquishes his office at the end of this month, Vice Admiral Arun Prakash, presently Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-IN-C) Western Naval Command, will take over as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff. Vice Admiral Madanjit Singh, who is presently heading the Southern Naval Command, will shortly move to Mumbai to assume the responsibilities of the FOC-IN-C West.

Vice Admiral Raman Puri, FOC-IN-C Eastern Naval Command will replace Lieutenant General Pankaj Joshi as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee.

Vice Admiral Om Prakash Bansal, presently the C-in-C Andaman & Nicobar Command has been appointed as the FOC-IN-C Eastern Naval Command.

Rear Admiral Rakesh Kala, Flag Officer Sea Training will take over as Chief of Staff at Headquarters Andaman & Nicobar Command.

All the above appointments will take effect in mid-October, 2003.