Port Blair, July 8: Lt Gen (Retd) A K Singh, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, one of the most distinguished officers of the Indian Army credited with high level of professionalism, assumed office as the 11th Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 08.07.2013. At a formal swearing-in-ceremony held at Raj Niwas here this afternoon, Mr. Justice Arun Mishra, Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court administered the oath of office and oath of secrecy to the new Lt Governor. The Chief Secretary, Shri Anand Prakash read out the warrant of appointment.

Lt Gen (Retd) A K Singh, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ex-general officer, Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, was commissioned into one of the oldest Regiments, the 7th Light Cavalry on the 17th June 1973. Known for his high integrity and professionalism, the General has been at the forefront of all recent major initiatives to transform the Indian Army and is looked upon as a role model by large numbers in the Armed Forces.

The General has commanded the 7th Cavalry, a T-90 Tank Brigade, an Armored Division and the most powerful Strike 1 (Corps), and till recently, he headed the largest Command, the Southern Army, covering ten States and four Union Territories and 40 % of India’s landmass.

He is credited with having ensured smooth civil-military relations and making major contribution in improving the administration and amenities in over 50 cantts and military stations under his jurisdiction.  For his exceptional and outstanding services, the General has been decorated with numerous awards.

On assuming the office, the General said that he was honoured and humbled by the trust reposed and the great responsibility entrusted to him.  The General also said that providing security and balanced development, while keeping ecological concerns to the fore will be a focus area.