In a remarkable display of medical expertise and calm professionalism, two Indian Army doctors serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) successfully handled a serious in-flight medical emergency aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET334.
Lieutenant Colonel Urmimala Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Kirti Sethi, both deployed at the Indian Level 2+ Hospital under UNMISS, stabilized a passenger who developed seizure-like symptoms during the flight. The condition was suspected to have been triggered by hypoglycaemia, a dangerous drop in blood sugar level that can rapidly progress to unconsciousness, coma, or even life-threatening complications if not treated in time.
The emergency unfolded when the aircraft was cruising at nearly 30,000 feet. With limited medical resources available onboard and no immediate access to a hospital, the situation demanded quick assessment, clinical judgement, and decisive action. The two Indian Army medical officers immediately stepped forward, examined the passenger, identified the likely cause, and initiated timely intervention using the available onboard medical support.
Their swift response helped stabilize the passenger and prevented the situation from deteriorating further. Owing to their effective handling of the emergency, the flight did not have to be diverted, and the journey continued safely.
Passengers from various nationalities reportedly expressed their appreciation for the doctors’ quick and composed intervention. Their calm conduct under pressure reflected both the discipline and professional standards associated with the Indian Army Medical Corps and the commitment of Indian peacekeepers serving in United Nations missions.
Lieutenant Colonel Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Sethi are part of the Indian medical team deployed with UNMISS, providing medical support in challenging and often unpredictable conditions. The Indian Level 2+ Hospital plays a crucial role in delivering advanced medical care to UN personnel and supporting peacekeeping operations in South Sudan.
The incident highlights the broader humanitarian role played by Indian peacekeepers globally. Indian medical officers deployed under the UN flag are not only responsible for supporting mission personnel but often extend critical assistance to civilians and others in emergency situations. Their contributions bolster India’s long-standing reputation as a leading contributor to United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
The Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping recognized the episode as a prime example of service beyond assigned duty. The successful management of the mid-air emergency showcased the officers’ ability to deliver life-saving care even in resource-limited conditions.
The actions of Lieutenant Colonel Urmimala Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Kirti Sethi serve as a proud reminder of the Indian Army’s ethos of “Service Before Self.” Their timely intervention aboard Ethiopian Airlines ET334 not only saved a passenger from a potentially grave medical crisis but also exemplified the dedication, skill, and humanitarian spirit of Indian Army doctors serving far from their homeland.
