During the centenary celebrations of the Military Nursing Service (MNS) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan emphasized the imperative for the Indian Armed Forces to stay vigilant and prepared for emerging threats, particularly in the realms of bio-hazards, radiological challenges, and the complexities surrounding nuclear deterrence.
With a nod to a remarkable 100 years of dedicated service, General Chauhan hailed military nurses as “the heartbeat of healthcare.” He acknowledged their critical role in maintaining both the health and operational readiness of the armed forces, highlighting that their responsibilities extend beyond clinical duties. He pointed out the importance of prioritizing the emotional and psychological well-being of nursing staff, ensuring that they can continue providing compassionate and effective care, especially under stressful conditions.
Lauding the ethos of dedication, resilience, and selfless service, the CDS portrayed the MNS as a model of jointness and integration among the three Services. He noted its significance as a crucial component of India’s defense strategy, effectively linking healthcare and operational capability at the frontlines and beyond.
On this momentous occasion, General Chauhan also unveiled Précis 2025 – “Self-Compassion, Care of the Caregivers,” an initiative designed to promote self-care among nursing professionals. In addition, he took the time to honor esteemed veterans of the MNS whose contributions have bolstered the nation’s healthcare infrastructure and enhanced the Indian Armed Forces’ overall readiness.
The centenary celebration served both as a tribute to a century of unwavering service and a reaffirmation of the MNS’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health and morale of soldiers, sailors, and air warriors—a mission that remains as critical today as it was a hundred years ago.
