Surgeon Rear Admiral Manish Honwad Assumes Command of INHS Asvini, Eminent Naval Hospital

A ceremonial change of command took place today at the Indian Naval Hospital Ship (INHS) Asvini in Mumbai, marking the transition of leadership from Surgeon Rear Admiral Dilip Raghavan to Surgeon Rear Admiral Manish Honwad, VSM.

During Raghavan's leadership from July 2024 to September 2025, the hospital saw significant improvements in patient care, infrastructure, and medical innovation. His efforts led to INHS Asvini receiving the Raksha Mantri Trophy for Best Command Hospital in 2024, solidifying its status as a pivotal institution in military healthcare.

Succeeding him, Surgeon Rear Admiral Honwad brings a wealth of experience in military medicine, with a notable record in enhancing healthcare services within the armed forces. He is poised to continue the hospital's tradition of excellence.

Established initially as the King’s Seamen Hospital in 1756 and recommissioned as INHS Asvini in 1951, this facility remains the only Command Hospital under the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy. With 825 beds, it serves over 300,000 patients annually, including naval personnel, other military members, veterans, and their families.

Situated in Navy Nagar, Colaba, the hospital integrates its rich history with cutting-edge technology, contributing to improved patient outcomes over the past decade. The ceremony, which featured a guard of honour and formal salutes, signified both continuity and new beginnings as Honwad assumed command.