The Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, witnessed a major leadership transition on August 1, 2025, as Vice Admiral Manish Chadha, AVSM, VSM assumed charge as its new Commandant, succeeding Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, AVSM, NM. The ceremonial handover, conducted with full military honours, highlighted the academy’s vital role in shaping the future leadership of the Indian Navy.
A Veteran with 34 Years of Distinguished Service
- Commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1991, Vice Admiral Manish Chadha brings with him over three decades of operational and strategic experience.
- A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA), he is a specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare, a critical domain in modern naval warfare.
- He has commanded frontline warships, including INS Mysore, INS Veer, and INS Kirpan, earning a reputation for tactical expertise and strong leadership.
Academic and Strategic Training
Vice Admiral Chadha’s career is marked by advanced professional education,
- He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, where he honed his skills in joint operations.
- He completed the Higher Command Course at the National Defence University, Washington, USA, further broadening his perspective on global maritime strategy and security.
Key Leadership Roles Before INA Command
- Prior to this appointment, Vice Admiral Chadha served as the Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resource Development) at Naval Headquarters.
- In this role, he was deeply involved in training and personnel development, a responsibility that perfectly aligns with his new post as INA Commandant.
- His experience in human resource management ensures that the INA continues to focus on comprehensive officer development.
The Significance of the Indian Naval Academy
- Inaugurated in 2009 with an investment of ₹721 crore, the INA is India’s premier officer training establishment.
- It is strategically located between the Ezhimala hill and the Kavvayi backwaters, with a 7-kilometre beachfront along the Laccadive Sea.
- The academy plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s naval preparedness under the AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative, providing state-of-the-art training to prepare future-ready naval officers.
- It is recognized as a key institution in strengthening India’s maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
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