Admiral Madhvendra Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff was on a maiden visit to the Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command. He reviewed an impressive ceremonial parade at the Naval base, Visakhapatnam. The Naval Chief was received at the parade by Vice Admiral Raman Puri, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command with full service honours.

The Admiral after inspecting the guard of honour and reviewing the platoons, addressed the naval personnel at the parade. He said that Indian Navy has an immense responsibility of defending the vast maritime frontiers comprising offshore assets including oil installations. He called upon the naval personnel to serve the Navy with utmost dedication, discipline and loyalty and imbibe qualities of fighting spirit and combat readiness. In view of the prevailing security environment in the country, one must resolve to fight against
cross-border terrorism with patriotic fervour, he added.

The ceremonial parade was attended by all Flag Officers, Commanding Officers of ships and establishments at Visakhapatnam and a large number of naval personnel and their families. The parade was commanded by Cdr Arvind Singh.

The Chief of the Naval Staff held discussions with the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command on matters pertaining to the operational status of ships, submarines and aircraft placed under the operational control of the Eastern Naval Command. He appreciated the efforts of the Eastern Naval Command in ensuring the operational readiness of the fighting units and keeping force levels on alert to meet the challenges at sea. Admiral Madhvendra Singh also interacted with the naval personnel and civilian employees of the Command during his visit. He appreciated the high motivation levels of the personnel of the Command.

Mrs Kaumudi Kumari, President, Naval Wives Welfare Association (NWWA) reviewed various welfare activities which are being undertaken by the members of NWWA (Regional) at an interactive session held at Samudrika, the Naval Auditorium at Visakhapatnam.

The Naval Chief also visited the submarine museum at Visakhapatnam. He appreciated the efforts of the Eastern Naval Command in accomplishing the gigantic task of setting up the museum which is first of its kind in Asia. It will soon be handed over to the authorities of Andhra Pradesh State Government who agreed to defray all running costs towards its maintenance and operation .