Commodore R Venkatesan has taken on the role of Director at the Centre for Indigenisation and Self-Reliance (CISR) located in Coimbatore, a significant development for the Indian Navy’s initiative focused on promoting self-reliance in defense. His official assumption of the position occurred on January 12, 2026.
Cmde Venkatesan brings a wealth of expertise as an accomplished engineer officer, having cultivated a robust educational foundation from institutions such as the Naval College of Engineering, IIT Kharagpur, and the Naval War College. His background encompasses substantial operational and staffing experience within various naval establishments.
Throughout his career, he has held critical afloat appointments, including serving as Engineer Officer on board three distinct Indian Navy warships. Beyond his sea duties, Cmde Venkatesan has occupied a range of significant staff positions at various commands, including Naval Headquarters, the Eastern Naval Command, and the Andaman and Nicobar Command. His experience extends to naval repair yards, research and development organizations, trial and training units, and the material organization.
The Centre for Indigenisation and Self-Reliance acts as a key field unit for the Indian Navy, leading the charge in efforts to enhance domestic design, development, and production of defense equipment, aligning with national aspirations for self-reliance.
Cmde Venkatesan’s new appointment is anticipated to bolster the Navy’s indigenisation efforts, encouraging stronger partnerships with industry and academia, and expediting the shift towards technologically advanced, domestically produced naval systems. His leadership is expected to play a crucial role in realizing the Indian Navy’s vision for a self-reliant defense ecosystem.
