Surgeon Vice Adm Arti Sarin Becomes First Woman to Lead Armed Forces Medical Services

Historic appointment marks new era in leadership of military medical services.

On October 1, 2024, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin made history by becoming the first woman to take over as the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS). As the 46th DGAFMS, she will oversee medical policy for the Indian Armed Forces and report directly to the Ministry of Defence.

Vice Admiral Sarin's appointment follows a distinguished career in which she has held several key positions, including Director General Medical Services (Navy), Director General Medical Services (Air), and Director & Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. An alumna of AFMC herself, she was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985. She holds an MD in Radiodiagnosis from AFMC and has specialized in Radiation Oncology, with advanced training in Gamma Knife Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh.

Career Achievements Across the Armed Forces

In her 38-year career, Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin has excelled in both academic and administrative roles, including as Professor and Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (Southern Command). She also commanded the prestigious INHS Asvini and served as Command Medical Officer in the Indian Navy's Southern and Western Naval Commands.

Remarkably, Vice Admiral Sarin has served in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces, holding ranks from Lieutenant to Captain in the Indian Army, progressing from Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral in the Navy, and serving as an Air Marshal in the Indian Air Force.

Recognized for Excellence in Service

Vice Admiral Sarin's dedication to her profession and patient care has earned her numerous accolades. She was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2024 and the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2021. In addition, she has received commendations from the Chief of Army Staff (2017), Chief of Naval Staff (2001), and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (2013) for her distinguished service.

A Champion of Women in the Armed Forces

In addition to her medical achievements, Vice Admiral Sarin has played a pivotal role in encouraging young women to join the Armed Forces. She is a symbol of the government's Nari Shakti (Women's Power) initiative and continues to inspire women across the country. Recently, she was appointed by the Supreme Court to a National Task Force to formulate protocols for the safe working conditions of medical professionals.

Her groundbreaking appointment as DGAFMS marks a significant milestone, not only for military medicine but also for women's leadership in India's defence forces.