From 03-06 Apr 24, Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Mrs Kala Hari Kumar, President Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), paid a farewell visit to Southern Naval Command (SNC), Kochi. During the tour, CNS met with SNC officers and sailors at the 'Connect with CNS' session held at the Sagarika auditorium, Naval Base, Kochi. The engagement was attended by personnel from SNC units, including outstation units. Various modern issues of the Indian Navy's operations, training, human resource development, digitalization, and other transformation programs were examined, and concerns were addressed. In another event, the CNS engaged with Kochi's defence citizens. He acknowledged their important contribution as a powerful workforce supporting the Indian Navy's high-tempo operations.
On April 24, Mrs Kala Hari Kumar, President NWWA, launched a new NWWA Kendra that houses office space, a conference hall, and welfare services such as class rooms and yoga/wellness rooms all under one roof in the presence of CNS. CNS then launched an ECHS outreach initiative known as 'SAMPARK 3.0'. Under this program, a team of officers and sailors from NHQ and SNC would tour several polyclinics in Kerala for eight days and meet with veterans and veernaris in rural regions.
Additionally, the Admiral visited his alma mater, INS Dronacharya, where he met with staff and trainees and took part in the 'Drona Gaan'. CNS went to the Training Block, where he served as Training Commander from 1997 to 1999. In addition, the CNS went to HQ Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST), where he served as the 16th FOST between 2013 and 2014. He gave professional advice and urged the HQST crew to stay focused on the SHIPS FIRST approach during his speech.
CNS launched a new married accommodation for DSC personnel, the 'Kulwant Singh' block, in commemoration of LNK Kulwant Singh SM (Posthumous). The structure, which has 74 magnificent living apartments and sophisticated amenities, represents the Indian Navy's constant dedication to the well-being of soldiers.
INS Garuda hosted a traditional 'Barakhana' in honor of CNS's parting visit. The CNS interacted with Dakshini Nausena Kamaan Parivaar members, encouraging them to fulfill their duties bravely and as a team to protect the nation's marine interests.
