Key Points

Vice Admiral Manish Chadha has taken over as Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala. He succeeds Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, who led the institution with distinction. A decorated officer, Chadha brings extensive experience in naval operations and leadership. His appointment is expected to further elevate INA's reputation as a premier military training center.

Key Points: Vice Admiral Manish Chadha Takes Charge as Indian Naval Academy Commandant

  • Vice Admiral Manish Chadha succeeds Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair at INA
  • Decorated officer with Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025
  • Former Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat & Maharashtra Naval Areas
  • Specializes in Communication & Electronic Warfare
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Vice Admiral Manish Chadha takes over as Commandant of Indian Naval Academy

Decorated officer Vice Admiral Manish Chadha assumes leadership at INA Ezhimala, succeeding Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair.

"Under his helm, the Indian Naval Academy is expected to further strengthen its reputation as a centre of excellence. – Official Release"

Kannur, August 1

The Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, marked a significant moment in its institutional journey as Vice Admiral Manish Chadha AVSM, VSM, took over as Commandant of the Academy on August 1.

According to a release, Vice Admiral Manish Chadha succeeds Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, AVSM, NM, who steered the Academy with vision, professionalism, and commitment.

A highly decorated Flag Officer, Vice Admiral Manish Chadha is an alumnus of the 78th course of the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla, and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1 1991.

A Communication and Electronic Warfare Specialist, he has done his Staff Course from Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and Higher Command Course from the National Defence University, Washington, USA.

He has commanded Coast Guard Interceptor Boat CGS-05 and Indian Naval Ships Veer, Kirpan and Mysore. He has held various staff and operational appointments at the Naval and Command Headquarters.

He was awarded the Ati Vishist Seva Medal in 2025 and Vishist Seva Medal in 2017. On promotion to Flag Rank on December 6, 2021, he was appointed as the Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat Naval Area, and subsequently he served as the Assistant Chief of Personnel (Administration and Civilian) at the Naval Headquarters and Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area.

Prior to taking over as Commandant INA, the Flag Officer tenanted the appointment of Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resource Development) at Naval Headquarters.

Under his helm, the Indian Naval Academy is expected to further strengthen its reputation as a centre of excellence for professional military education and leadership development of cadets from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and maritime forces of friendly foreign countries.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Such an impressive resume! But I wonder when we'll see more women in these top naval positions? The forces need better gender representation at leadership levels.
A
Aditya G
His experience commanding multiple ships will be invaluable for training cadets. The Naval Academy produces world-class officers - proud moment for our nation!
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Sarah B
Interesting to see he studied in Washington too. International exposure is so important for our military leaders in today's globalized world.
K
Karthik V
Hope he focuses on modernizing training methods too. With new tech like AI and drones, naval warfare is changing rapidly. Our cadets need cutting-edge education.
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Neha E
My brother graduated from INA last year. The discipline and values instilled there are unmatched. Wishing the new Commandant all the best! 🙏

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