Prakash Gopalan Takes Over as Chief of Staff at Southern Naval Command
Rear Admiral Prakash Gopalan took over as Chief of Staff at the Southern Naval Command (SNC) on January 26, 2026, succeeding Upal Kundu.
Graduating from the Indian Naval Academy, Rear Admiral Gopalan began his career in the Indian Navy on July 1, 1993. As a specialist in Navigation and Direction, he offers nearly thirty years of extensive operational and leadership experience.
Throughout his distinguished career, the Flag Officer has led numerous important naval units, including TRV-72, INS Kora, INS Mysore, and INS Mumbai.
His significant roles have encompassed responsibilities such as Defence Advisor at the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka and Fleet Operations Officer of the Eastern Fleet. He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College and the National Defence College.
Before taking on his current role, Rear Admiral Gopalan was the Deputy Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, where he played a pivotal role in officer training and professional development.
His new position as Chief of Staff at the Southern Naval Command represents a significant step forward, anticipated to enhance the Command’s dedication to training excellence, operational readiness, and maritime security.
