Command experience through integration, Delhi, and the destroyer flotilla

Katari commanded the 37th Minesweeping Flotilla and HMIS Kistna, then led inshore naval operations during Junagadh's integration. As executive officer of INS Delhi, he effectively ran the cruiser while an experienced British officer remained its captain. The arrangement gave him responsibility and a sounding board during his first cruiser appointment, reducing the risk of a costly mistake during the transfer of authority. Both officers were learning their new cruiser roles, as Katari's later recollection makes clear. He served as Chief of Personnel from March 1949 and took command of the 11th Destroyer Flotilla from INS Rajput in November 1951. Attendance at the Imperial Defence College in 1953 prepared him for further headquarters responsibilities and flag rank.