In a significant advancement for the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), Major General Rachel Thomas has officially taken on the role of Principal Matron at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in New Delhi, effective May 1, 2025. The transition was celebrated at a formal ceremony, led by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), who extended warm felicitations to the new appointee.
Major General Thomas is an esteemed alumna of the College of Nursing at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. She was commissioned into the AFMS in 1988, and her nearly four decades of service have seen her excel in various clinical, academic, and administrative capacities. Her leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to military healthcare have earned her widespread respect across the medical community.
Photographs from the event depicting Maj Gen Thomas in her new office, adorned with ceremonial military insignia, have captured the pride of the occasion. A poignant group photo with family members emphasized both her professional achievements and personal joy, recognizing the support that has accompanied her journey.
The appointment has been met with accolades from the broader military community, including heartfelt tributes from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This recognition underscores her remarkable contributions and reflects a collective appreciation of her dedication and service.
Maj Gen Thomas’s new role as Principal Matron not only signifies a personal triumph but also marks an important step forward for the representation of women in senior leadership positions within the armed forces. The AFMS has reiterated its commitment to excellence in military healthcare, emphasizing that leaders like Maj Gen Thomas help to fortify its mission. Her appointment is expected to enhance service, compassion, and innovation in patient care, further aligning with the strategic goals of the AFMS.
