Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, superannuated on 31 October 2025 after almost 40 years of distinguished service in the Indian Navy. In a solemn tribute, he laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi on 25 October 2025, honouring the supreme sacrifice of our Bravehearts. Commissioned on 01 January 1987, Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Specialist and an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. With over 15 years at Sea, he commanded three frontline warships – INS Kora, INS Shivalik and the aircraft carrier INS Viraat. He is also an alumnus of the Naval War College, Karanja and Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island, USA.
Ashore, he has held key leadership assignments in Naval operations, acquisitions and personnel management. A keen promoter of Atmanirbhar Bharat in the Indian Navy, he is one of the pioneers that conceptualised the National Maritime Domain Awareness project, which has now taken shape in its current form enhancing overall maritime security capabilities. As he hauls down the Naval Ensign, he reaffirms his commitment to the Nation and expresses deep gratitude to his shipmates - the finest men and women in whites. We thank him for his service to the Nation and wish him fair winds, following seas and success in his next voyage.
