Naval Hospital: INHS Kalyani - 25th Anniv Special Cover

Date of Issue: May 18, 1987

Special Cover issued to commemorate 25th Anniversary of INHS Kalyani - Indian Navy Hospital at Vishakhapatnam, Head Quarters - Eastern Naval Command. This year 2012 marks 50th Anniversary, and I think there may be a special cover issued.

INHS Kalyani - the only Naval Hospital in the Eastern Naval Command was inaugurated by Vice Admiral R D Katari on 26 Apr 1962 by converting sickbay INS Circars into a Naval Hospital. It was commissioned on 18 May 1962 as a 60 bed hospital within the premises of INS Circars by the first Commanding Officer Surg Cdr Manindra Chandra Nath. In 1966 the crest of INHS Kalyani was published in NO 97/66.

The crest depicts a lotus flower with the rising sun in the background depicting life and health which is the major mission of INHS Kalyani. The word Kalyani means “Auspicious” and also refers to the holy temple baths of the scriptures that are credited with healing powers. A dip in the holy bath is considered enough to cure all physical ills and provide mental peace and tranquillity. The name was chosen to represent the holistic healing process being bestowed on all who come into contact with INHS Kalyani. The word “Kalyani” is also the name of the Goddess of Welfare.

Text Source: Indiannavy.nic.in