Vice Admiral Manish Chadha Assumes Charge as Director General Naval Operations

The Indian Navy has appointed Vice Admiral Manish Chadha as the new Director General Naval Operations (DGNO), placing an experienced operational commander at the helm of one of the service’s most critical appointments. He assumed charge after succeeding Vice Admiral A. N. Pramod, who recently took over as the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff.

As DGNO, Vice Admiral Chadha will oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of the Indian Navy’s operational activities across India’s maritime domain. The appointment comes at a time when the Navy continues to address evolving security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region, including safeguarding sea lines of communication, enhancing maritime domain awareness, and supporting India’s broader strategic interests.

A specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare, Vice Admiral Chadha brings over three decades of operational and leadership experience. Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1991, he has commanded several frontline warships, including INS Mysore, and has held important staff and command appointments throughout his distinguished career. His previous assignments include Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat Naval Area, Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area, and Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy.

Throughout his career, Vice Admiral Chadha has played a significant role in strengthening naval operational capabilities, force development, and international maritime cooperation. His experience in personnel management, operational planning, and strategic leadership is expected to contribute to the Indian Navy’s continued modernization and mission readiness.

The Directorate General of Naval Operations plays a central role in monitoring maritime developments, coordinating fleet operations, and ensuring operational preparedness during both peacetime and contingencies. With increasing geopolitical activity across the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean Region, the appointment underscores the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a high level of operational vigilance and combat readiness.

Vice Admiral Chadha’s elevation to this strategic position reflects the Indian Navy’s emphasis on experienced leadership as it continues to strengthen maritime security, expand regional partnerships, and protect India’s national interests at sea.