A pivotal leadership transition occurred at INS Kadamba, the critical naval base located in Karwar, Karnataka, as Capt. Amit Kumar Sinha officially took command from Capt. VS Guru. This significant event, which took place on September 11, 2025, underscored the Indian Navy’s ongoing commitment to fortifying its maritime defense capabilities in the strategically vital Arabian Sea.
Capt. Sinha, a well-regarded figure in naval circles, is an alumnus of esteemed institutions, including the National Defence Academy in Khadakvasla and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. He has also completed the Higher Defence Management Course in Secunderabad. With a specialization in Anti-Submarine Warfare, Capt. Sinha brings an extensive background to his new role, having previously commanded INS Kora and INS Vipul, and served as the Executive Officer on INS Sahyadri and INS Kirpan. He also held the position of Staff Instructor at the Anti-Submarine Warfare School, showcasing his deep engagement with tactical and operational training. His appointment is expected to enhance the operational efficiency at the base, with studies indicating that specialized leadership can lead to an improvement of up to 20% in naval operations.
Commissioned on May 31, 2005, INS Kadamba represents a cornerstone of India’s maritime strategy, emerging from initiatives first proposed in the 1980s under the guidance of Admiral Oscar Stanley Dawson. The decision to establish the base in Karwar, as opposed to alternative locations such as Thiruvananthapuram, was driven by its advantageous strategic geography.
Since its inception, INS Kadamba has played a vital role in strengthening regional security, particularly amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. The base has facilitated the relocation of 10 capital ships from Mumbai, enhancing operational readiness and deterrence capabilities. Currently, with Phase II of Project Seabird in progress, INS Kadamba is set to significantly expand its capacity, with plans to accommodate up to 50 frontline warships and 40 auxiliary ships, thereby cementing its status as the largest naval base east of the Suez Canal.
The change-of-command ceremony was attended by various naval personnel and featured traditional military honors, emphasizing the seamless transition between the outgoing and incoming commanding officers. This event underscores the base’s continued readiness to tackle future challenges under Capt. Sinha’s leadership, as the Indian Navy continues to enhance its role in securing maritime interests and maintaining peace in the region.
