Commodore Varghese Mathew Assumes Command as Naval Officer-in-Charge of Kerala
In a formal ceremony at the Southern Naval Command headquarters in Kochi, Commodore Varghese Mathew took over as the new Naval Officer-in-Charge (Kerala) from Commodore Jose Vikas. The event, highlighted by the exchange of command insignia, underscores the Indian Navy's commitment to ensuring smooth leadership transitions, which are crucial for maintaining continuity in training and operational objectives.
Commodore Mathew, a graduate of Sainik School and the National Defence Academy, enters this role with almost three decades of service in the Indian Navy. Since his commissioning on July 1, 1996, he has specialized in Gunnery and Missile Warfare. His academic background is further enriched by courses attended at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington and the Indian Naval War College. Before assuming his current position in Kochi, he gained significant experience at the Tri-Services Headquarters in New Delhi, enhancing his joint-service skills.
Based at INS Venduruthy in Kochi, the Southern Naval Command is the Indian Navy’s leading training establishment. It is instrumental in developing naval personnel through its comprehensive foundational and advanced training programs. Since its inception, the command has seen its importance rise, with the senior-most role upgraded to a three-star rank in 1977 to reflect its growing responsibilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
The appointment of Commodore Mathew is anticipated to advance the training capabilities and maritime readiness of the command, particularly in the strategically vital state of Kerala. His leadership is expected to bolster the navy’s goal of cultivating a modern and mission-ready force, well-equipped to tackle both regional and global maritime challenges.
