PREFACE

1. The Divisional system of the Indian Navy is a time tested and singularly unique system that provides every officer the means and the forum to interact with the sailors of his division. The Divisional Officer bears an important responsibility in the naval chain of command. He is the first link in a system, which prides itself for its contribution towards channelising the growth of the sailor in the service, concurrently looking after his personal interests. In doing so the Divisional Officer must always maintain a delicate balance between the interests of the service vis-à-vis personal aspiration of the sailor.

2. In this fast changing technological world the Divisional Officer's responsibility towards his men can not be over emphasised. The primary responsibility of an officer is to lead. One can lead only if he/she is prepared for it and sets the right example. Personal commitment of a very high order is called for from the young officer even for routine functioning.

3. Every officer irrespective of his branch and cadre is entrusted with a division at some point of his service career. While formalised training is imparted to the majority of officers on the mechanical functions of a Divisional Officer, the aspects related to management of sailors and resolution of various issues is left to the individual to learn from experience. This is an avoidable quagmire as experience is unique to an individual and replication of any situation with all its myriad hues is virtually impossible. This revised edition therefore aims to provide every young officer with a guideline on his functions as a Divisional Officer. The focus therefore, is primarily on techniques and principles that have stood the test of time and are therefore ideal for dissemination.