Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Becomes First Woman to Lead India's Armed Forces Medical Services

Her historic appointment marks a major milestone for gender equality in the military

Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed as the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS). This marks a groundbreaking achievement for gender equality in the Indian military. Sarin, 60, will lead the Armed Forces Medical Services for the next two years, overseeing healthcare for over 1.4 million personnel across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Commissioned in December 1985 after graduating from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, Sarin has a distinguished career spanning 38 years. She holds an MD in radiodiagnosis from AFMC, a Diplomate National Board in radiation oncology from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and specialized training in Gamma Knife surgery from the University of Pittsburgh, USA.

Sarin's career has been marked by several prestigious appointments, including Director General Medical Services (Air) and Commandant of the AFMC in Pune. She has also commanded key institutions like INHS Asvini and served in various leadership roles across all three branches of the armed forces, making her one of the most versatile military doctors in the country. Her remarkable journey reflects her relentless pursuit of excellence and her advocacy for women in the military.

In 2024, Sarin was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) for her exemplary service. She is also a member of the Supreme Court-appointed National Task Force working to ensure safe and dignified working conditions for medical professionals, especially in the wake of rising concerns about violence against healthcare workers.

Vice Admiral Sarin's appointment comes two months after Lt. Gen. Sadhna Saxena Nair became the first woman to head the Director General Medical Services (Army), signaling a new era of leadership for women in the Indian Armed Forces. Sarin’s inspiring journey is a beacon for future generations of women officers, reflecting the growing recognition of women's leadership within the military.

Reference:

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