Vice Admiral Ram Dass Katari was the first Indian to serve as Chief of Naval Staff, leading the Indian Navy from 22 April 1958 to 4 June 1962. A trailblazer in Indian naval history, he held several notable distinctions, including being the first cadet to join the Training Ship Dufferin upon its inception in 1927, the first recipient of the Viceroy’s Gold Medal, and the first ex-cadet elected as a member of the institution's Governing Body. His appointment as Naval Chief marked a historic transition in the Indian Navy’s evolution into an indigenously led maritime force.

Born in Chinglenut near Madras and raised in Hyderabad, Katari excelled academically and topped the entrance examination to join Dufferin. Following his early service and significant contributions during World War II, he held several important sea commands and played a key role in post-war naval operations, including clearing mines around the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He was promoted to Captain in December 1948 and later served as Deputy Chief of Naval Staff in 1954, rising to the rank of Commodore. His rapid ascent continued with his promotion to Rear Admiral in March 1956 and eventually to Vice Admiral and Chief of Naval Staff in April 1958. His leadership helped lay the foundation for a self-reliant and modern Indian Navy.