The rank is held by the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), the professional head of the Indian Navy, since 1968.

The rank may also be held by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) if the holder is a serving Indian Navy flag officer.

The flag of an admiral has a gold-blue octagon bearing naval crest in the middle, and four blue stars placed vertically at hoist side.

[3] The badges of rank have a crossed sword and baton over four eight-pointed stars and the Ashoka emblem above, on a golden shoulder board.

The term length of the Chief of Naval Staff is three years or until the age of 62 of the holder, whichever is earlier.