Vice Admiral Atul Anand has taken charge as the Additional Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs in the Defence Ministry. He succeeds Lt Gen Anil Puri, who retired earlier this year. Vice Admiral Anand, an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, has held several key appointments in his naval career. He is a recipient of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. Vice Admiral Anand’s appointment is expected to contribute to the effective functioning of the Department of Military Affairs.