New Delhi, May 10: Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla has officially taken over as the Chief of Personnel for the Indian Navy, as announced by the Ministry of Defence on Friday.
Commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 1, 1989, Vice Admiral Bhalla boasts a distinguished career spanning 35 years, during which he has held a multitude of specialist, staff, and operational roles, both at sea and on land.
The Ministry highlighted Vice Admiral Bhalla's extensive experience, noting his completion of a Specialisation Course in Communication and Electronic Warfare, followed by service aboard numerous frontline warships. Notable commands during his tenure include INS Nishank, INS Taragiri, INS Beas, and the prestigious appointment of Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF).
During his time as FOCEF, Vice Admiral Bhalla served as the Officer in Tactical Command for significant events such as the President’s Fleet Review (PFR - 22) and the Sea Phase of the Indian Navy’s flagship multinational exercise MILAN - 22, which saw significant participation from Friendly Foreign Countries.
Additionally, Vice Admiral Bhalla has held key staff positions at Naval Headquarters, including Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resource Development), and has overseen officer training at the Naval Academy. He has also represented the Indian Navy in a diplomatic capacity abroad.
Before assuming his current role as Chief of Personnel, Vice Admiral Bhalla served as the Chief of Staff of the Western Naval Command, where he played a crucial role in overseeing operations.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Vice Admiral Bhalla has been honored with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, the Nao Sena Medal, and commendations by both the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief.
