Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, AVSM, NM took charge as the Chief of Personnel of the Indian Navy on November 1, 2025. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, he was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1990.
Distinguished Naval Career: Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh
A specialist in Gunnery and Missiles, Vice Admiral Singh has served onboard Indian Naval Ships Ranjit and Prahar. He was part of the commissioning crew of three indigenously constructed warships: INS Brahmaputra as Gunnery Officer, INS Shivalik as Executive Officer, and INS Kochi as Commanding Officer. Additionally, he commanded INS Vidyut and INS Khukri.
He has contributed to naval training as an instructor at INS Dronacharya (Gunnery School) and served as Deputy Commandant at the Naval War College in Goa. His staff roles include Assistant Chief of Personnel (HRD), positions in the Directorate of Naval Intelligence at Naval Headquarters, and service in the Indian Naval Work-up Team.
Leadership Roles and Achievements
Vice Admiral Singh was appointed Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet in November 2022, focusing on operational preparedness under the mission “Ordnance on Target.” Elevated to Vice Admiral rank in January 2024, he became Controller Personnel Services, implementing initiatives to enhance working conditions for naval personnel and the broader naval community. Before his current role, he served as Commandant of the National Defence Academy.
He earned the Admiral Katari Trophy for standing first in overall merit during his initial training. Under his command, INS Khukri received the Chief of Naval Staff ‘Unit Citation’ in December 2011 for effective anti-piracy operations. His commendations include the FOC-in-C Commendation (2002), the Nausena Medal (2020), and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2024).
Academic Qualifications and Training
Vice Admiral Singh holds MSc and MPhil degrees in Defence & Strategic Studies. He has completed the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington, Higher Command at the Naval War College, and National Defence College courses in India. Internationally, he attended the Maritime Intelligence Course at the National Intelligence University, Washington, and the United Nations Staff Officers Course (UNSOC) in Stockholm, Sweden.
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Source: PIB
