Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has made history as the first woman to serve as the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), marking a significant milestone in the Indian Armed Forces. Her ascent to this prestigious position not only exemplifies resilience and dedication but also stands as a powerful testament to “Nari Shakti” — the strength of women.
What sets Vice Admiral Sarin apart is her unique achievement of serving across all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. She began her career in the Indian Army, progressing from the rank of Lieutenant to Captain. In the Indian Navy, she advanced from Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral, while in the Indian Air Force, she attained the rank of Air Marshal. This remarkable journey of wearing olive green, navy blue, and sky blue uniforms exemplifies the spirit of tri-service integration, a rarity in military service.
With nearly 38 years of exemplary service, Vice Admiral Sarin has taken on numerous critical roles, including serving as Director General Medical Services for both the Navy and the Air Force, as well as Command Medical Officer for Southern and Western Naval Commands. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly notable; she implemented quarantine facilities, innovative medical solutions, and ensured the safety of both soldiers and their families during unprecedented challenges.
Academically accomplished, Vice Admiral Sarin is an alumna of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, where she earned her MBBS and MD in Radiodiagnosis. She further enhanced her expertise by completing a Diplomate National Board in Radiation Oncology and underwent advanced training in Gamma Knife Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh, USA. Her blend of academic brilliance and military leadership has paved the way for significant advancements in oncology, military healthcare, and medical innovation.
Her service has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2024 and the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2021. She has also received commendations from the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Naval Staff, highlighting her exceptional contributions. Beyond her military accolades, she was appointed by the Supreme Court’s National Task Force to develop safe working protocols for medical professionals, underscoring her credibility and reach beyond the military domain.
As one of only three women officers to achieve the rank of Vice Admiral, alongside Punita Arora and Sheila S. Mathai, she has redefined the possibilities for women in uniform. Her leadership, especially along the Line-of-Control during insurgencies, showcased her courage in caring for both military personnel and civilian populations.
Now, as the DGAFMS, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin is responsible for shaping medical policies across the Armed Forces and inspiring countless young women to pursue careers in service to the nation. Her life story serves as a powerful reminder that determination knows no boundaries, whether in terms of gender or military branch. She encapsulates the essence of a soldier, a doctor, and above all, a leader, inspiring future generations to follow her path.
