According to Defense Ministry of India, Vice Admiral Sureesh Mehta, 59 will be the next chief of the Indian Navy. He will take charge from November 1, 2006. He is currently serving as flag officer commanding-in-chief of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) since September 30, 2005.



He has earlier served as assistant controller of carrier projects, assistant chief of personnel (human resource development) and director general, Coast Guard also. He has instigated some new programs in the Indian Navy such as aircraft acquisition programs, construction of air defence ships and established a strong, vibrant and visible Indian Coast Guard.



He had directed the navy to provide instant relief in tsunami-hit areas in the country and neighboring countries. The war room leak case had also hit the roof during his period where naval officers were reported to allegedly passed on some sensitive information outside.



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