A significant milestone was achieved today at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune as a new batch of medical cadets was formally commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) during a solemn ceremony held at the Bharadwaj Auditorium. The event was presided over by Surg Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, marking a historic moment as she is the first woman to head the AFMS since her appointment as Director General in 2024.
The ceremony attracted a gathering of senior officers, faculty members, veterans, and the families of the cadets, emphasizing the importance of this occasion. Among the dignitaries present were Lt Gen Pankaj P Rao, Commandant of AFMC, and Maj Gen Giriraj Singh, Dean of the institution. This event served not only as a celebration of achievement but also as a reaffirmation of the values that underpin military medicine in India.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, Surg Vice Admiral Sarin offered her heartfelt congratulations and encouraged them to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards while serving the nation in uniform. She underscored the pivotal role of military doctors, emphasizing their importance not only in conflict scenarios but also in disaster response, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian efforts.
Since its establishment in 1962, AFMC has been instrumental in producing over 6,000 doctors who have served across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The institution has played a vital role in several key operations, including distinguished contributions during the Kargil War in 1999, thereby earning a noteworthy reputation in both national and military history.
The AFMS, which encompasses the Army Medical Corps, Army Dental Corps, and Military Nursing Service, continues to adapt to advancements in medical technology and operational preparedness. Recent statistics from the Ministry of Defence in 2023 reveal a 15% increase in deployment efficiency during overseas and peacekeeping assignments, further underscoring the strategic importance of the Armed Forces Medical Services.
The commissioning ceremony this year not only marks the commencement of service for a new generation of military doctors but also symbolizes AFMC’s enduring role in shaping the future of India’s defense healthcare system. This event signifies not just a transition, but also a commitment to excellence in service to the nation.
