Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan has officially taken over as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS), marking a significant transition in India’s naval leadership. The change of command was solemnly celebrated with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial, where Vice Admiral Vatsayan honored the sacrifices of India’s fallen heroes.
With a rich naval career spanning over 37 years, Vice Admiral Vatsayan hails from the 71st course of the National Defence Academy and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 1, 1988. He is recognized as a specialist in Gunnery and Missile Systems, having held various critical command, operational, and policy roles both at sea and on land.
His naval experience includes commanding several ships, including INS Vibhuti, INS Nashak, INS Kuthar, and INS Sahyadri, the latter serving under him as the commissioning commanding officer. He also led the Eastern Fleet as Flag Officer Commanding during heightened operational tempos following the Galwan clashes, facilitating several strategic deployments and joint maritime exercises. His previous roles saw him play significant parts in missions aboard INS Mysore, INS Nishank, and the ICGS Sangram during their commissioning.
An alumnus of prestigious military institutions, including the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, the Naval War College in Goa, and the National Defence College in New Delhi, Vice Admiral Vatsayan has occupied various key positions at Naval Headquarters. These roles included Director of Personnel Policy, Director Naval Plans (Perspective Planning), and Principal Director Naval Plans. After being promoted to Flag Rank in 2018, he took on the role of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) before returning to sea as the Eastern Fleet Commander.
His career also includes significant contributions as the Deputy Commandant at the National Defence Academy and, most recently, as the Deputy Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff for Operations and Policy. In this capacity, he was instrumental in advancing tri-service integration, promoting jointness, and supporting indigenous force development.
In recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, Vice Admiral Vatsayan was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2021, reflecting his commitment and contributions to the Indian Navy.
On a personal note, Vice Admiral Vatsayan is married to Sarita, and they have a son, who is an MBA graduate from the Indian School of Business, and a daughter who has pursued studies in Humanities. His extensive experience and proven leadership will undoubtedly guide the Indian Navy in its future endeavors.
