Port Blair, Oct 08 (Agency) Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) which was established on October 8, 2001 under the unified command of the Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar (CINCAN) towards building synergy and cohesion between components to act in concert, whilst defending the national interests on these vital islands and maritime space, on Friday celebrated its 21st Raising Day. Besides providing military presence, the ANC has been vital in aiding Civil Authorities, especially during the tsunami.
The event was celebrated with a ceremonial parade by contingents of its Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard components. Lieutenant General Ajai Singh, AVSM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN)reviewed the parade at INS Utkrosh. The pride and josh of each participating contingent from the only Joint Services Command of the nation reflected the level of integration of all arms and evolution of jointsmanship culture at the ANC. In his address the Commander-in-Chief conveyed his heartiest congratulations to all the personnel and families of the ANC and acknowledged their contribution towards the operational readiness of ANC. He lauded the personnel on the achievements of the command over the last few years, which included efficient safeguarding of the islands, coastline, territorial waters and EEZ, apart from conducting various national and multi-national exercises, HADR missions and aiding civil authorities.
He also spoke about gradual building up of forces to include men, weapons and equipment to maintain high standard of operational preparedness and ensure that the ANC successfully overcomes emerging challenges and threats to the nation. He elucidated about several important government initiatives of strategic significance that will improve infrastructure and inter-island connectivity for the residents of A&N Islands. The Commander-in-Chief also spoke of efforts at hand towards improving the quality of life of the families of the personnel of ANC. He appreciated as well efforts of the Defence Wives Welfare Association (DWWA) in raising social awareness through various campaigns using innovation ideas to reach out to the community including online lectures, webinars, career counseling, waste management and nutrition during COVID times.