Lieutenant General Vineet Sharma, serving as the Director General Dental Services (DGDS) and Colonel Commandant of the Army Dental Corps, recently visited frontline dental sections in the North East region of India. This visit included an inspection of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinic managed by the DAO Platinum Healers, underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to delivering high-quality oral healthcare to its personnel as well as local populations in challenging environments.
During the inspection, Lt Gen Sharma received detailed briefings regarding the roles and responsibilities of the dental units in supporting operational readiness. He emphasized the significance of reviewing critical elements such as infrastructure, equipment modernization, and the overall quality of care provided to both soldiers and civilians. The General Officer took particular note of the unwavering dedication exhibited by the dental teams, who tirelessly work in tough conditions to ensure essential services are accessible.
The DAO Platinum Healers, a specialized unit known for their exemplary service in maintaining oral health standards, were acknowledged for their notable contributions during the visit. Lt Gen Sharma expressed his appreciation for their efforts in providing comprehensive dental care in the region.
In addition to the focus on military dental care, the visit was part of the Indian Army’s larger welfare initiative, dubbed Operation Sadbhavana, aimed at fostering community development in remote areas. The General Officer engaged with local residents availing dental services under this program, which has played a pivotal role in improving healthcare access for underserved populations.
Operation Sadbhavana was launched in 2023 with a dedicated budget of Rs 8.82 crore, supporting a variety of projects throughout regions like Ladakh, encompassing education, infrastructure, and healthcare outreach. The North East is now receiving similar benefits from these ongoing efforts, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to community welfare.
This visit comes on the heels of Lt Gen Sharma’s earlier inspection of military dental institutions in Bengaluru, where he had reiterated the importance of preventive oral healthcare. His ongoing mission highlights the critical role of the Army Dental Corps in ensuring the health and readiness of the nation’s defenders while simultaneously extending vital support to civilian communities, particularly in remote areas.
The Indian Army continues to bolster its healthcare initiatives, ensuring that both military personnel and local populations receive the necessary care, even amid the most demanding circumstances. This dedication to health and wellness reflects the Army’s broader commitment to both its troops and the communities they serve.
