In a significant visit to a frontline Field Hospital located in the Lipa Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), commended the unwavering commitment of the medical team operating in challenging conditions. This visit underscored the hospital’s crucial role in supporting military operations near the Line of Control (LoC), a region that has historically faced difficulties due to insurgency.
During her time at the facility, VAdm Sarin received detailed briefings on the hospital’s operations and its essential contribution to providing medical support not only to military personnel but also to local civilians as part of Operation Sadbhavana. Initiated in 1998, this Indian Army operation aims to “win hearts and minds” by delivering healthcare services, empowering women, and supporting youth in border areas significantly impacted by terrorism. The Admiral interacted with local residents receiving care, reinforcing the commitment of the Armed Forces to humanitarian efforts in the region.
VAdm Sarin also highlighted the quality of training received by Battlefield Nursing Assistants (BFNAs), who are pivotal in administering swift, life-saving care in combat zones. The BFNAs have proven to be instrumental in remote areas, displaying their skill sets in broader efforts, including the management of COVID-19. The medical team, affectionately referred to as the ‘Lipa Valley Healers,’ received accolades for their dedication and professionalism, which are essential in ensuring operational readiness under strenuous circumstances.
This visit reflects the Indian Armed Forces’ broader mission to intertwine community welfare with military objectives, aiming to build trust with the local population, including the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities near the LoC. VAdm Sarin’s engagement signifies ongoing efforts to enhance medical services within the armed forces, ensuring not only the well-being of troops but also providing crucial support to civilians in conflict-affected regions.
The event was attended by personnel from various branches of the military, exemplifying the cooperative spirit of the Armed Forces Medical Services. The DGAFMS acknowledged the vital contributions made by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force medical branches in maintaining healthcare delivery amidst diverse and demanding conditions.
