Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 31: Admiral Krishna Swaminathan formally took over as the 27th Chief of the Naval Staff on Saturday, outlining a vision focused on strengthening operational preparedness, accelerating modernisation, and advancing indigenous capabilities within the Indian Navy.
Soon after assuming command from Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, who retired from service earlier in the day, Admiral Swaminathan paid tribute to the nation's fallen heroes by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial.
Addressing the media following the change of command, the new Navy chief described his appointment as a profound honour and responsibility. He expressed gratitude to the country's leadership for entrusting him with the role and reaffirmed his commitment to serving both the Indian Navy and the nation with dedication.
Admiral Swaminathan highlighted the increasingly complex and unpredictable regional security landscape, noting that the Indian Navy remains continuously deployed to safeguard the country's maritime interests. He stressed that maintaining peak operational readiness and combat capability would remain his foremost priority to ensure the protection of India's security and economic interests across all areas of responsibility.
The Navy chief also underscored the importance of continuing the force's ongoing transformation through capability enhancement and technological advancement. He stated that efforts would be directed toward sustaining the momentum of modernisation programmes, strengthening existing projects, and rapidly integrating advanced and emerging technologies to sharpen the Navy's operational edge.
A key element of his vision revolves around what he termed "JAI" — Jointness, Atmanirbharata (self-reliance), and Indigenisation. According to Admiral Swaminathan, these principles will guide future initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration among the armed forces while reducing dependence on foreign systems through indigenous development and manufacturing.
Emphasising the human element behind naval strength, he praised the professionalism and dedication of Navy personnel, describing them as among the finest maritime professionals in the world. He assured that the welfare, career growth, and overall well-being of sailors and officers would remain central to his leadership approach.
Reflecting on the contributions of his predecessor, Admiral Swaminathan commended Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi for his distinguished service and effective leadership. He acknowledged the former Navy chief's vision and guidance, which helped steer the force through significant milestones, and wished him success in the next chapter of his life.
Concluding his remarks, Admiral Swaminathan pledged to devote himself fully to building a stronger, more agile, and technologically advanced Navy capable of making a greater contribution to national security, economic growth, and India's broader strategic interests.