The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India’s only Integrated Joint Services Operational Command, celebrated its 25th Raising Day today, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime security and defence history. Established in 2001, the Command has been at the forefront of safeguarding India’s strategic interests in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands while building cooperation with regional partners.
The celebrations began with Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), laying a wreath at Bayonet Square to honour fallen personnel. He later reviewed a ceremonial Joint Services Parade at Military Station Brichgunj. Units that received appreciation were felicitated during the parade, and CINCAN lauded the contribution of serving personnel, families, and women officers for their commitment to the Command’s growth.
The ceremonial events featured a fly past by an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter and an operational demonstration by MARCOS, who showcased Small Team Insertion and Extraction operations using the Mi-17. A cultural programme followed, reflecting the heritage of the islands and the spirit of jointmanship that defines ANC.
Reflecting on the Command’s 25-year journey, Vice Admiral Kochhar recalled its transformation from modest beginnings into a formidable force that not only protects India’s maritime frontiers but also contributes to regional stability. He highlighted ANC’s humanitarian response during the 2004 tsunami, cyclones, and the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside more recent missions such as Operation Brahma in Myanmar and multiple medical evacuations from remote islands. He underlined how the Command’s quick action in assisting 8–10 civilian vessels in distress and 18 medical evacuations in recent months showcased its vigilance and humanitarian approach.
On operational readiness, CINCAN emphasized the Command’s enhanced maritime surveillance and troop deployment. He noted the role of Army detachments in remote islands through Area Domination Patrols (ADPs) and Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs), along with sustained surveillance by Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard aircraft across the Malacca Strait and adjoining waters. He also pointed to the apprehension of poachers as evidence of maritime vigilance.
Highlighting ANC’s role in regional cooperation, he referred to joint exercises and coordinated patrols with friendly foreign nations, including IND-INDO CORPAT, INDO-THAI CORPAT, SITMEX, and AIKEYME, which strengthen India’s commitment to maritime security and international partnerships. He also mentioned the Dweep Diksha Seminar, an initiative that brings together military experts, scholars, and think tanks to deliberate on issues of the Indian Ocean Region.
In terms of infrastructure, Vice Admiral Kochhar reported progress on renovation of the Car Nicobar runway, extension of the Kohassa runway, and approval for new operational infrastructure at Kamorta and Campbell Bay. These projects, he said, will boost the Command’s long-term capability.
The Command’s community engagement initiatives also came into focus. From ‘Aarohan Dweep Se Delhi’, which took 30 tribal students to Delhi for Independence Day celebrations, to medical camps, school outreach, veteran interaction programmes, and fishing community awareness drives, ANC has sought to integrate welfare with its operational mandate. Initiatives like the Coastal Cleanup Mission and welfare efforts led by the Defence Wives Welfare Association (DWWA) and other component associations were praised for enriching community ties.
The day-long celebrations concluded with the illumination of Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships off Marina Park at sunset and a Joint Services Band Concert in Sri Vijaya Puram. The display combined ceremonial grandeur with the symbolism of ANC’s enduring vigilance and unity of the armed forces.
Extending greetings to all personnel and their families, Vice Admiral Kochhar acknowledged their unwavering support and sacrifices, calling them the foundation of the Command’s success over 25 years.
As India’s only Integrated Operational Command, ANC remains central to safeguarding national sovereignty in the eastern Indian Ocean, ensuring maritime security across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and sustaining India’s growing strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific.
