Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla Takes Charge as Chief of Personnel of Indian Navy

Vice Admiral Bhalla's career is noted for his specialization in Communication and Electronic Warfare, having completed an advanced course early in his tenure.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, AVSM, NM, has officially assumed the role of Chief of Personnel (COP) of the Indian Navy as of May 10, 2024. His commission into the Navy dates back to January 1, 1989, marking over three decades of distinguished service across various capacities.

Vice Admiral Bhalla's career is noted for his specialization in Communication and Electronic Warfare, having completed an advanced course early in his tenure. His operational expertise was honed aboard several frontline warships, leading to multiple command positions including the INS Nishank, INS Taragiri, and INS Beas. His leadership acumen was further demonstrated during his tenure as Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), during which he oversaw significant naval exercises including the President’s Fleet Review (PFR – 22) and the multinational naval exercise MILAN – 22.

His shore assignments have been equally impactful, having served at the Naval Headquarters as the Assistant Chief of Personnel (Human Resource Development), and overseeing officer training at the Naval Academy. Additionally, Vice Admiral Bhalla has represented the Indian Navy in a diplomatic capacity overseas.

Prior to his current appointment, he served as the Chief of Staff at the Western Naval Command, where he was responsible for operations such as Op Sankalp and high-profile events like the Navy Day Operation Demonstration 2023 at Sindhudurg.

Vice Admiral Bhalla is an alumnus of prestigious institutions including the Royal College of Defence Studies, London; the Naval War College, and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. His academic credentials include an M.Phil in Defence & Strategic Studies, a Master’s in International Security and Strategic Studies from King's College, London, an M.Sc in Defence & Strategic Studies from Madras University, and an M.Sc in Telecom from CUSAT.

His exemplary service has been recognized with several honors, including the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and the Nao Sena Medal, along with commendations from the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief. Vice Admiral Bhalla’s vast experience and strategic insight are expected to greatly contribute to his new role as the Chief of Personnel, steering the personnel management and development strategies of the Indian Navy.