Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 08 October 2025
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) — India’s only Integrated Joint Services Operational Command — celebrated its 25th Raising Day on 08th October 2025, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s maritime and defence journey.
Established in 2001, the Command stands as a symbol of jointmanship, synergy, and vigilance, safeguarding India’s strategic interests across the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.
To commemorate the occasion, Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), laid a wreath at Bayonet Square to honour the fallen heroes, followed by a ceremonial Joint Services Parade at the Military Station, Brichgunj. He lauded the dedication of service personnel and their families, appreciated the participation of women personnel and the media, and congratulated units conferred with commendations.
The event featured a fly-past by an IAF Mi-17 helicopter and a thrilling operational demonstration by MARCOS of the Indian Navy, showcasing Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE) operations. The celebrations also included cultural performances highlighting the rich heritage and diversity of the Islands, underscoring the Command’s operational readiness and esprit de corps.
Reflecting on the Command’s 25-year journey, Vice Admiral Kochhar paid tribute to the vision and sacrifices of those who laid the foundation of ANC, recalling its evolution into a formidable force that not only protects national sovereignty but also contributes to regional stability. He cited the Command’s vital role in humanitarian operations during the 2004 tsunami, cyclones, and the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as Operation Brahma, the recent HADR mission to Myanmar. The Command also provided timely assistance to several civilian vessels in distress and executed 18 lifesaving medical evacuations from remote islands in recent months.
Highlighting the Command’s enhanced operational efficiency, CINCAN noted the increased deployment of ships, aircraft, and troops across the area of responsibility. He commended the sustained Army presence on remote islands through Area Domination Patrols (ADPs) and Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs), along with continuous maritime surveillance by the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. He also acknowledged the successful apprehension of poachers in ANC’s jurisdiction as a testament to maritime vigilance.
Vice Admiral Kochhar further emphasised ANC’s international cooperation, citing joint exercises and coordinated patrols such as IND-INDO CORPAT, INDO-THAI CORPAT, SITMEX, and AIKEYME, which reinforce India’s commitment to regional security. He highlighted the ‘Dweep Diksha Seminar’ as a key initiative fostering strategic dialogue among military experts, scholars, and think tanks on Indian Ocean security.
On the infrastructure front, CINCAN informed that the Car Nicobar runway renovation is nearing completion, while the extension of the Kohassa runway and development of OTR ports at Kamorta and Campbell Bay are progressing rapidly. He also appreciated ongoing community outreach programmes such as Aarohan Dweep Se Delhi, which enabled tribal students to visit Delhi and witness Independence Day celebrations, along with regular medical camps, fishing community drives, and veteran interactions.
Acknowledging the contribution of families, CINCAN praised DWWA and other welfare associations for their role in social initiatives, visits to old-age homes and orphanages, and their unwavering support to the Command’s personnel.
The celebrations concluded with the illumination of Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships off Marina Park and a Joint Services Band Concert at Sri Vijaya Puram, adding splendour to the silver jubilee occasion.
Extending his greetings to all members of the Command, Vice Admiral Kochhar commended their professionalism, commitment, and sacrifice in upholding India’s maritime security.
As India’s sole Integrated Operational Command, the Andaman and Nicobar Command continues to safeguard the nation’s maritime frontiers and strengthen India’s strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
