In the 75 years since Independence, the Indian Navy has transformed from a small coastal defence force to one of the most formidable in the world. Operating in all three dimensions - on water, above it and below it - in the far seas and at extended ranges, she has displayed her prowess as a true blue water force. The Indian Navy has also developed niche skills in indigenous ship designing and system integration, in disciplines as varied as Hydrography and Diving to Music and Sport. At our Online Talk #TransitionToTransformation, Navy historian Cmde Srikant Kesnur, VSM (Retd), tells us the fascinating story of the Indian Navy's growth and development,  its important operations, the key drivers and determinants and, above all, the leaders and icons  who shaped the trajectory of the Navy.

About the speaker

Cmde Srikant Kesnur, an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy, was commissioned in the Indian Navy in July 1986. He has been the Captain of two frontline ships and his tours of duty have witnessed several important assignments, prestigious courses and interesting tenures - at sea, and ashore. He has a PhD from Mumbai University apart from five postgraduate degrees in science and social sciences. He has been lead writer and chief editor of eleven books/monographs and many journals for the Indian Navy. Prior to his retirement, he was the Director of Maritime Warfare Centre, Mumbai, and also the Officer in Charge of Naval History Project. He was conferred the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in the Presidential Awards in 2021.