Admiral R Hari Kumar took over as the new Chief of the Naval Staff on Tuesday. He replaced Admiral KB Singh, who retired from service today after a 30-month tenure.

The new navy chief received the guard of honour at the South Block lawns.

“It is a matter of great honour for me to take charge as the Chief of Naval Staff. Indian Navy’s focus is on our national maritime interests and challenges,” Admiral Kumar said.

He was serving as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western NavalCommand.

Born on April 12, 1962, Admiral Kumar was commissioned into the Navy’s Executive Branch on January 1, 1983.

He has served in a variety of command, staff, and instructional appointments during his long and distinguished service spanning nearly 39 years.

His sea commands includes INS Nishank, INS Kora and guided missile destroyer INS Ranvir. He also commanded the aircraft carrier Viraat and also served as fleet operations officer of the Western Fleet.

Before taking over as FOC-in-C Western Naval Command, he was chief of Integrated Staff Committee of headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff.

He has undergone courses at the Naval War College, the US; Army War College, Mhow, and Royal College of Defence Studies, the UK.

He has been honoured with the Param Vishist Seva Medal (PVSM), the Ati Vishist Seva Medal (AVSM) and Vishist Seva Medal (VSM).