Ezhimala, Nov 29: Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Saturday addressed newly commissioned officers at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s pivotal role in shaping India’s destiny and in the future application of military power to safeguard national interests.
“India is both a continental and a maritime power. But India’s ultimate destiny is likely to unfold in the oceans. In this, the Indian Navy will play a decisive role in securing this destiny. This, I believe, is preordained. The Navy will also play a decisive role in any future application of military power for securing national interests,” General Chauhan said.
Advising the new officers on the importance of professional excellence, he warned, “The price of incompetence is paid with lives. Let your commitment to professional excellence be absolute so that in peace you are prepared and in war you prevail.”
Technology and Jointness: The Future of Warfare
Reflecting on his early service days, General Chauhan said that military strategy was once largely shaped by geography, but technology now dominates strategy, operational art, and tactics. He urged the officers to integrate technological awareness throughout their careers.
He also emphasized the growing importance of inter-service integration and jointness. “All future wars will be fought in an integrated manner. Jointness is the mantra that will make us succeed. We are promoting integration among the three services to ensure operational effectiveness,” he added.
Passing Out Parade Showcases International Collaboration
The INA Ezhimala Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Autumn Term marked the culmination of intensive training for cadets joining the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and friendly foreign navies. General Chauhan reviewed the parade, inspecting platoons set to serve across India and abroad.
The parade featured precise drills, immaculate coordination, and high standards of military bearing. Officers from Bangladesh, Maldives, Mozambique, Myanmar, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam participated alongside Indian cadets, highlighting India’s strong maritime partnerships and collaborative defence engagements.