Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, conducted a detailed inspection of the Base Hospital in Delhi Cantt, highlighting the Indian Army’s commitment to high-quality healthcare services for its personnel and their families. The visit, part of the Army’s #YearOfTransformation initiative, aimed at enhancing medical infrastructure and patient care at this crucial garrison hospital.
During his inspection, Lt Gen Katiyar received updates on the hospital’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades, particularly focused on wards and personnel lines, which are designed to improve both operational efficiency and the patient experience. As a premier medical facility under the Indian Army, the Base Hospital Delhi Cantt is noted for its advanced infrastructure and specialized treatment centers, offering care to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. It plays a central role in maintaining the health and readiness of the armed forces community.
Commending the hospital staff for their operational readiness and dedication, Lt Gen Katiyar emphasized the need for excellence in critical care areas, like the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), to ensure optimal patient outcomes. He recognized the commendable work being done by the team and underlined the continuous pursuit of excellence in healthcare delivery.
The visit featured a ceremonial guard of honor, with images shared by the Western Command’s official X account showcasing Lt Gen Katiyar being welcomed formally by the hospital staff. Visuals from the inspection included the General engaging with medical personnel, reviewing facilities, and interacting with troops, demonstrating his hands-on leadership approach. The presence of national flags from India and other nations in the images may indicate a ceremonial component or international military cooperation.
Lt Gen Katiyar, who took over as GOC-in-C of the Western Command in July 2023, brings extensive experience from his 37-year military career. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy, he was commissioned into the 23rd Battalion of the Rajput Regiment in June 1986. His previous roles include serving as the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), and he has commanded units in strategic areas such as the Siachen Glacier and along both the Line of Control and the Line of Actual Control. His distinguished service was recognized in 2021 when he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
The Base Hospital Delhi Cantt continues to adhere to its tradition of excellence and compassionate care, supported by highly trained staff and state-of-the-art technology. It holds a vital position within the Indian Armed Forces’ healthcare system, ensuring that military personnel and their families have access to the best possible medical care.
Responses to the Western Command’s social media post regarding the inspection were mixed. While many users expressed gratitude for the prioritization of healthcare improvements, others voiced concerns about broader issues impacting soldiers, showcasing the diverse views on military welfare.
This inspection reinforces the Indian Army’s dedication to the well-being of its personnel, ensuring that healthcare remains a fundamental aspect of its operational readiness and support infrastructure.
