Vice-Adm Arun Prakash to be Navy chief

Vice-Admiral Arun Prakash will take over as the Chief of Naval Staff after incumbent Admiral Madhvendra Singh retires on July 31.

V-Adm Prakash, a naval aviator, who brought home the first batch of Sea Harriers, also holds the unique distinction of being awarded the Vir Chakra, the country’s third-highest gallantry award during war, on a commendation from the Indian Air Force. Prakash had been posted with the IAF to fly their jets during the 1971 war as the force was running short of experienced pilots.

Promoted to Rear Admiral in 1993, he served as ACNS (Air), Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet and Assistant Chief of Personnel. In the rank of Vice Admiral, he has served as the commandant of the National Defence Academy and as Chief of Personnel at Naval Headquarters.