Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 8: The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) marked its 24th Raising Day on 08 Oct 24. Established in 2001 as an Integrated Command under the leadership of Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar (CINCAN), the ANC has continually exemplified synergy and cohesion among the Services while safeguarding national interests in the distant Andaman & Nicobar region.

Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, the 17th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), presided over the Joint Services Parade held at Military Station Brichgunj to commemorate this significant milestone. In his address, CINCAN congratulated the winners of unit citations and praised the high standards of the Joint Service parade. He reflected on the determination and sacrifice that have defined the Command over the past 24 years, from its humble beginnings to becoming a formidable force committed to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and contributing to regional stability. This journey has been marked by numerous achievements, each a testament to the professionalism and dedication of its personnel.

CINCAN highlighted numerous achievements of the ANC, which include clocking more than 2000 days at sea, intercepting over 40 foreign naval ships and completing 92 deployments, more than 460 beachings at sea, flying over 4000 hours, participating in exercises with Friendly Foreign Countries (FCCs), being part of Ex. Poorvi Leher, and facilitating long-range firings of BrahMos and Crystal Maze. The Command has completed reconnaissance of all 836 islands twice, and its Jan Pehchan Patrols (JPPs) & Tactical Operative Bases (ToBs) have evolved into Joint Service Missions with representatives from other services joining in.

Anti-poaching operations have been a regular feature over the last year, leading to the apprehension of 56 poachers and 13 boats. The ANC has undertaken five Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, saved 25 lives at sea, and provided technical assistance to numerous Indian and foreign ships. The largest rescue operation occurred in Dec 2023, involving 150+ Rohingyas off Shaheed Dweep. ICGS Vishwast fed and sheltered them for more than three weeks before successfully transporting them to Indonesian waters. Capability enhancement at all stations is ongoing, with significant developments like all-weather day and night operations capability at INS Utkrosh.

While highlighting the operational capability of the ANC, CINCAN mentioned the successful conduct of the offensive Ex-Dweep Shakti last November, which for the first time involved fighters and AWACS, SF from AFSOD, Para Bn, and a Battalion Group of 91 Brigade. This was followed by an operational demonstration for the Hon’ble President at Swaraj Dweep. The ANC also participated in Ex-Tatpar, a state-level mock drill for tsunami and earthquake preparedness for effective disaster management. The recently concluded Ex-Gandiv, along with the NSG and Andaman and Nicobar State Administration, helped the Command evaluate its response time and reaction to hostage and hijack-like situations.

The ANC has continued its efforts in nation-building by leading initiatives such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and coastal cleanup drives. The Command has adopted villages, carried out ex-servicemen outreach programs, inaugurated an Integrated Medical Station at Campbell Bay, and provided medical support to the civil population as needed.

The ANC’s biking expedition to the north and the Territorial Army’s cycling expedition to Indira Point spread the message of national unity. The recent homage to Param Vir Chakra awardees, a swimming expedition to all 21 islands covering over 300 km of open sea swimming, was a significant feat that received accolades from all three service chiefs, the CDS, and the Hon’ble RM.

CINCAN further added that the Defence Wives Welfare Association (DWWA) and its four components have been playing a stellar role over the past year, with regular visits and assistance to old age homes and orphanages. The DWWA has provided over ₹10 lakhs worth of aid to various orphanages.

Highlighting the importance of teamwork, CINCAN lauded the exceptional cohesion observed at all levels with the Civil Administration and various security agencies. This collective effort is instrumental in synergizing actions to provide comprehensive security and foster the growth and prosperity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, contributing to the nation at large.