Admiral R Hari Kumar takes charge as new chief of naval staff, receives guard of honour

New Delhi: Admiral R Hari Kumar on Tuesday took charge as the new chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and received a guard of honour at the South Block lawns in Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, CNS Kumar said, “It is a matter of great honour for me to take charge as the Chief of Naval Staff. Indian navy focus would be on national security and maritime challenges. I will put my energy focused on it. My predecessors have guided the navy and I will also try to build upon their accomplishments and achievements.”

CNS Kumar succeeded Admiral KB Singh who superannuated after a 30-month tenure today.

#WATCH Admiral R Hari Kumar takes blessings from his mother on taking charge as the new Chief of Naval Staff today pic.twitter.com/v6hsuhAhIG

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2021

Speaking on the occasion retiring Admiral KB Singh said, “I last 30 months crisis of covid and Galwan. The navy did its best to deal with the crisis. Navy looked outward always available to help citizens and the nation.”

Born on April 12, 1962, Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar was commissioned on January 1, 1983, into the Executive Branch of the Indian Navy.

Delhi | Admiral R Hari Kumar receives guard of honour at the South Block lawns as the new chief of Naval Staff pic.twitter.com/cq80DOdWVz

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2021

During his long and distinguished service spanning nearly 39 years, he has served in a variety of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments.

Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar’s Sea Command includes INS Nishank, Missile Corvette, INS Kora and Guided Missile Destroyer INS Ranvir. He also commanded Indian Navy’s Aircraft Carrier INS Viraat.

He served as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet. Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar has undergone courses at the Naval War College, US, Army War College, Mhow and Royal College of Defence Studies, UK.