New Delhi, April 19 - The Central Government has given its approval for Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi to assume the role of the next Chief of the Indian Navy. Currently serving as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Tripathi will take over the reins from Admiral R Hari Kumar, who is set to retire on April 30.

Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi joined the Indian Navy's Executive Branch on July 1, 1985, and has since amassed nearly 39 years of distinguished service. He is recognized for his expertise in communications and electronic warfare. Prior to his role as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, he held the position of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. His contributions have been acknowledged with awards such as the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Navy Medal.

Having commanded several Indian Navy ships, including Vinash, Kirch, and Trishul, Vice Admiral Tripathi has also fulfilled various crucial operational and staff appointments. These include serving as the Operations Officer for the Western Fleet, Director of Naval Operations, and Principal Director of Network Centric Operations in New Delhi. As a Rear Admiral, he served as the Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) and Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet.

In his role as Vice Admiral, he has led the prestigious Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, served as the Director General of Naval Operations, Chief of Personnel, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi is an alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa, the National Defense Academy in Khadakwasla, and has completed courses at the Defense Services Staff College, Wellington, the Naval Higher Command Course in Karanja, and the Naval Command College at the United States Naval War College.