The Andaman and Nicobar Command: the country's only operational joint services command

Background

The Ministry of Defence describes the Andaman and Nicobar Command as the only operational joint services command of the country — a single command in which the Army, the Navy and the Air Force serve under one operational head. Its head is designated Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command, abbreviated CINCAN. Since its inception in 2001 the Command has significantly enhanced its operational capabilities. Its Joint Operations Centre is the nerve centre for integrated planning for surveillance, conduct of operations and logistic support. The Command guards the islands and the Exclusive Economic Zone around them, and carries out humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Because of the geo-strategic position of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Command carries forward the Government's Act East Policy and the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region, abbreviated SAGAR, by building ties with the country's maritime neighbours. Among the air assets inducted into the Command is the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter MK III, a maritime-role variant built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which was formally inducted at INS Utkrosh.