Vice Admiral Manish Chadha Assumes Role as INA Commandant

Swift Summary:

• Vice Admiral Manish Chadha assumed charge as Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, on Friday, succeeding Vice Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair.
• He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakvasla, and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on july 1, 1991.
• A specialist in Interaction and Electronic Warfare, he has completed advanced military courses at Defense Services Staff College (wellington) and National Defence University (USA).
• His sea commands include Coast Guard Interceptor boat CGS-05 and Indian Naval Ships Veer, Kirpan, and Mysore.
• He has held operational and administrative positions at various headquarters throughout his career.
• Decorated with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025 and Vishisht Seva Medal in 2017 for distinguished service.
• Prior to becoming INA Commandant, he served as Assistant Chief of Personnel responsible for Human Resource development at Naval Headquarters.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

Vice Admiral Manish Chadha’s appointment as Commandant of INA reflects a continuation of selecting highly experienced personnel to lead India’s premier naval training institution. His extensive expertise spans communication systems, electronic warfare specialization, sea commands across diverse vessels, and high-level staff responsibilities-ensuring that cadets receive leadership inspired by practical experience. The decorated officer’s tenure may bring increased emphasis on modern warfare techniques that align with increasing global maritime challenges.

The transition also underscores India’s focus on maintaining robust naval leadership amid geopolitical shifts. With advanced defense education from both domestic academies like NDA/Wellington staff College and international exposure at National Defence University in the U.S., his background feeds directly into India’s efforts to prepare its navy for future multi-domain operations while adhering to evolving strategic doctrines.

Read more: Source