Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, a pivotal figure in the Indian military, has made history by being awarded the prestigious Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2025. Her recognition is a testament to her revolutionary contributions to military healthcare and her unwavering commitment to the welfare of soldiers. As the first woman to hold the position of Director General Medical Services (Army), Lt Gen Nair has redefined leadership within the armed forces by blending her extensive frontline experience with innovative medical strategies.
The award was conferred during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, acknowledging Lt Gen Nair’s tireless dedication to military medicine. Her lifelong devotion to service before self has been a hallmark of her career, reflecting the values of the Indian Armed Forces.
Early Life and Medical Education
Lieutenant General Nair was born in September 1964 at the Army Base Hospital in New Delhi, growing up in a family with a proud history of military service. Her academic journey took her through institutions in Prayagraj and Lucknow, culminating in an MBBS degree from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune in December 1985. Her dedication to medicine is evident in her continuous pursuit of education, having achieved a postgraduate degree in Family Medicine, along with diplomas in Maternal & Child Health and Health Care Management. She also received advanced training in Medical Informatics from AIIMS Delhi, gained global experience through CBRN warfare training with the Israeli Defence Forces, and studied Military Medical Ethics with the Swiss Armed Forces.
Pioneering Military Career
Commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in 1985, Lt Gen Nair quickly distinguished herself in various high-profile commands. Notably, she became the first woman to serve as Principal Medical Officer of the Western and Training Command of the Indian Air Force, and later as Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) with the rank of Air Marshal. Her tenure as Director General Medical Services (Army) began on August 1, 2024.
Her impressive career includes critical roles in major military operations, such as Operation Brass-tacks in 1987, Operation Vijay during the Kargil War in 1999, and Operation Parakram in 2002. Furthermore, she was instrumental in overseeing the armed forces’ medical response during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing her leadership during crises.
Key Achievements and National Honors
In recognition of her exceptional service, Lt Gen Nair holds an array of prestigious awards, including the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), commendations from the Chief of the Air Staff, and various operation and long service medals. Beyond her military accolades, she has contributed to national policy in medical education through her involvement in the Kasturirangan Committee for the National Education Policy.
Modernizing Military Medicine
Under Lt Gen Nair’s leadership, the Indian Army Medical Corps has achieved significant milestones aimed at modernizing military healthcare. These initiatives include implementing digital health solutions in remote areas, leveraging artificial intelligence and telemedicine for timely diagnostics, enhancing mental health services, expanding women-specific healthcare programs, and improving logistics for field hospitals. Her forward-thinking approach aims to create inclusive and responsive medical services that are essential in contemporary hybrid warfare scenarios.
Legacy, Leadership, and Inspiration
Lt Gen Sadhna Nair’s leadership style is characterized by discipline, empathy, and a commitment to soldier welfare. She actively mentors young officers and medical professionals, particularly women, encouraging them to pursue leadership roles within the military. Her influence has transformed perceptions of women’s roles in the armed forces, positioning them not just as officers but as strategic leaders and innovators.
### Conclusion
Lt Gen Nair represents more than a decorated military official; she embodies progress and purpose within India’s armed forces. Her AVSM award in 2025 not only celebrates her remarkable career but also marks an important milestone in the evolution of women’s roles in the Indian military. As India embarks on a journey toward a technology-driven defense landscape, leaders like Lt Gen Nair will undoubtedly inspire future generations with their courage, competence, and commitment to service.
