A historic milestone was achieved during ARMEDiCON 2026 at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, with the implementation of the largest hand sanitisation exercise under the Pan-AFMS banner on February 5, 2026. This initiative has garnered official recognition from the Asia Book of Records, marking a significant achievement in the realm of public health.
The event featured Surg Vice Adm Arti Sarin, the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), as the Chief Guest. The occasion brought together senior leadership from AFMS, alongside faculty members, nursing officers, and medical and nursing cadets from the college, showcasing a collective commitment to enhancing public health initiatives.
This extensive exercise served not just as a record-setting moment but also as a vital public health outreach program, emphasizing the critical role of hand hygiene in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety within both healthcare and operational settings. The event was particularly timely, coinciding with the centenary celebration of the Military Nursing Service, which has dedicated a century to service, professionalism, and excellence in military nursing.
The hand sanitisation exercise was a tribute to the legacy of nursing personnel who have consistently demonstrated compassion and clinical excellence while serving the Armed Forces. Through this initiative, the AFMS reiterated its leadership in advancing best practices in public health, medical education, and preventive medicine.
This event not only celebrated the historical contributions of military nursing but also highlighted the AFMS’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare service. The successful execution of this exercise reflects a robust dedication to fostering a culture of safety and hygiene, pivotal to both military and civilian health outcomes.
