In a groundbreaking development for adolescent health, the ‘Navchetna’ Adolescent Health Clinic was inaugurated at the Armed Forces Clinic (AFC) in New Delhi on March 27, 2025, by Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, the Director General Medical Services (DGMS) of the Army and Senior Colonel Commandant of the Army Medical Corps (AMC). This initiative is set to provide comprehensive physical and mental healthcare services tailored specifically for adolescents, a demographic often facing multifaceted challenges in their developmental journey.
Recognizing the unique healthcare needs of teenagers, the ‘Navchetna’ clinic focuses on delivering preventive, promotive, and curative services that encompass a variety of crucial aspects such as mental health support, nutritional guidance, sexual and reproductive health education, as well as lifestyle choices. The establishment of this clinic aims to create a safe and encouraging environment where young individuals can seek guidance and assistance with confidence.
During the inauguration address, Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair underscored the critical role that initiatives like ‘Navchetna’ play in empowering adolescents to lead healthier and more informed lives. She stressed that adolescence is a defining period that significantly influences an individual’s future and emphasized the necessity of providing specialized healthcare during this transformative stage. “Adolescents are the future pillars of our nation,” she pointed out, noting that ensuring their well-being through targeted healthcare interventions is both a necessity and a responsibility. She advocated for the establishment of similar clinics across the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) to expand the reach of these vital services.
In conjunction with the clinic’s launch, Lt Gen Nair also unveiled Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials aimed at raising awareness about adolescent health issues. This educational outreach is intended to promote the services offered by the clinic and will be distributed across various military healthcare facilities to foster a culture of preventive healthcare among adolescents. The goal is to empower young individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.
The inauguration of ‘Navchetna’ represents a significant advancement in the AFMS’s commitment to improving healthcare services, emphasizing a holistic approach to addressing adolescent health. The initiative’s success is anticipated to set a precedent for the establishment of similar clinics throughout the country, ensuring that young people gain the necessary care and support they require as they navigate this critical phase of life.
Closing the event, Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair reaffirmed the AFMS’s dedication to the health and well-being of all age groups. She expressed confidence that initiatives such as ‘Navchetna’ will be instrumental in safeguarding the future of the nation by fostering a healthier generation.
