New tricks for an old sea dog?

New Delhi - Known as a media-shy officer for long, Indian Navy chief Admiral Nirmal Verma Tuesday called himself "an old sea dog" and wondered if it was difficult for him to learn new skills.

Set to retire from service this month-end after 42 years in the maritime force, three of which were as naval chief, Verma was particularly stung by a daily's comment that he preferred to stay away from media glare for most part of his tenure. Verma took over as chief of the naval staff on Aug 31, 2009.

At his farewell press conference here, Verma said: "I know, in fact I have often been made acutely aware by members of the media that I have not been as forthcoming with any significantly sensational sound bytes, as are anticipated!"

"Yesterday's edition of the 'Mail Today' remarked upon my preference for reticence. I ask myself, 'Is it too late for an old sea dog to learn new tricks?'," he remarked.

But he was not just satisfied with this. Verma went a step ahead and asked the media to introspect if "the daily stories of grief, hardships, joy, accomplishments and absolute devotion to duty" in the lives of the 1.3-million strong armed forces personnel and at time even "laying down their lives" merited any media coverage at all.

"I believe that their accomplishments are not covered to a degree commensurate to their sacrifice. I also believe the armed forces of our nation are as much a treasure to each of you, as they are to me, and therefore, I do hope you find it within yourself to introspect over the parting request of this old sea dog," he said, ending his opening statement.