Lieutenant General Sandeep Thareja, SM, VSM, has officially relinquished command of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, concluding a significant tenure that has ushered in transformative changes within the institution. Despite the brevity of his leadership, lasting only six months, Lt Gen Thareja’s impact on AFMC is noteworthy, characterized by substantial advancements in training methodologies, research initiatives, and infrastructure development.
During his command, AFMC embarked on a modernization journey that integrated contemporary facilities and innovative practices aimed at enhancing both medical training and research efforts. Among the pivotal projects initiated under his leadership was the establishment of the DIAMOnDS Lab, dedicated to pioneering next-generation sequencing technology tailored for oncology. This facility marks a significant leap forward in cancer research and diagnostics, positioning AFMC as a leader in this critical area of medical science.
Furthermore, Lt Gen Thareja emphasized postgraduate education through the introduction of a SMART Classroom, designed to foster interactive and technology-driven learning experiences. This initiative is expected to greatly enhance the educational journey of postgraduate trainees, equipping them with the skills necessary in an increasingly digital medical landscape.
In addition to these advancements, AFMC embraced innovative training modalities with the incorporation of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology. This modern approach to medical training enables cadets to engage in state-of-the-art simulation scenarios, exemplifying AFMC’s commitment to integrating high-tech solutions into its curriculum.
The establishment of the Health Technology Assessment Center under Lt Gen Thareja’s tenure has also been a significant stride towards better policy development and medical research. This center aims to bolster military healthcare systems, ensuring that they remain at the cutting edge of advancements in medical technology and practices.
As Lt Gen Thareja transitions from his role at AFMC, he takes on a new position in the Indian Air Force as the Director General Medical Services (Air), holding the rank of Air Marshal. His extensive expertise in medical education, research, and healthcare policy is anticipated to significantly enhance the medical capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
The legacy of Lt Gen Sandeep Thareja at the Armed Forces Medical College is expected to endure, as he has positioned the institution as a leader in military medical innovation and excellence, paving the way for ongoing advancements in the field.
