The Navy Master Chief Petty Officer (Navy MCPO) is a unique non-commissioned position of office of the Indian Navy. The holder of this position is the most senior rating of the Indian Navy, equivalent to the Indian Air Force Master Warrant Officer (IAF MWO).
The Navy MCPO is appointed by the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) to foster seamless communication between CNS and sailors. The current Navy MCPO is Dilbahadur Chhetri, MCERA I, VSM.
Origin The first Navy MCPO, Rajendra Kumar Behera, was appointed by the 25th Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R. Hari Kumar on 1 May 2022. The appointment of a senior enlisted leader serving as advisor to the CNS was to ensure seamless integration, effective communication and drive the change for a future-proof Indian Navy. The Navy MCPO holds the mantle of fostering seamless communication between the CNS and sailors.
Insignia The Navy MCPO retains their rank and wear the insignia of Master Chief Petty Officer. In addition, they wear the aiguillettes presented by the CNS.
List of officeholders Portrait Name Term of office Took office Left office Time in office 1 MCPO IRajendra Kumar Behera 1 May 2022 30 June 2023 2 MCERA IDilbahadur Chhetri, 30 June 2023 Incumbent
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