In a formal ceremony held at INS Adyar, Chennai, Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, VSM, officially handed over the command of the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area to Rear Admiral Satish Shenai, NM, on January 8, 2025. The transition was marked by a ceremonial parade, signifying the continuity of leadership within this strategic naval command.
Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, a distinguished submariner and a specialist in Navigation and Direction, has served the Indian Navy with distinction since his commissioning in 1992. His career highlights include commanding various submarines and receiving the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2019 for his exemplary service. His tenure as the Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Naval Area began on April 25, 2023, before he passed on the baton to his successor.
Taking over the reins, Rear Admiral Satish Shenai brings his own wealth of experience, having previously served as the Chief Staff Officer (Training) at Southern Naval Command since January 16, 2024. An expert in Gunnery and Missile Warfare, Shenai has commanded several naval vessels including INS Kirch, INS Trishul, and INS Talwar. His diverse operational experience and training roles prepare him well for leading the naval operations in this region.
The event took place at INS Adyar, a key naval base in Chennai, which has a rich history dating back to the early 1940s. Commissioned after the river Adyar, the base supports various naval units and has been pivotal in the naval defense along the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast. The commanding officer of INS Adyar also holds the additional responsibility of the Naval Officer-in-Charge (NOIC) for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
The ceremony not only signifies a change in command but also underscores the ongoing commitment of the Indian Navy to maintain operational readiness and administrative efficiency in this crucial naval area. The presence of the naval personnel in full parade dress added to the solemnity and tradition of the event, reflecting the pride and discipline of the naval forces stationed at INS Adyar.
This transition in leadership is part of the regular rotational policy of the Indian Navy to ensure fresh perspectives and robust command over its diverse operational areas. Both admirals’ extensive backgrounds in naval operations promise continued excellence in the management and execution of naval duties in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
