Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin made history on 1st October 2024 by becoming the first woman to lead DGAFMS, the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS). She succeeded Lt Gen Daljit Singh as the 46th DGAFMS. This significant appointment marks a milestone in women’s empowerment within the Indian Armed Forces.
A Landmark Appointment for Women in the Armed Forces
Arti Sarin’s appointment is seen as a boost to gender equality, positioning her as a role model under the government’s Nari Shakti initiative. She is also part of the National Task Force for Medical Professionals’ Safety, appointed by the Supreme Court.
In the past, Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair became the first woman Director General of Medical Services (Army), paving the way for more women leaders in the military’s medical services.
Background and Career Highlights of Vice Admiral Arti Sarin
Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, an Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) Pune alumna, was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985. With over 38 years of distinguished service, she has held multiple important roles, including:
- Professor and Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (Southern Command), Pune.
- Commanding Officer at INHS Asvini and Command Medical Officer of the Southern and Western Naval Commands.
- Director & Commandant of AFMC Pune.
- DG Medical Services for both the Navy and Air Force.
Her impressive career across the Army, Navy, and Air Force highlights her versatile leadership and contributions to the Armed Forces’ healthcare systems.
Contributions and Recognition
In recognition of her service, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has received numerous honors:
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in July 2024 from President Droupadi Murmu.
- Vishisht Seva Medal in 2021.
- Commendations from the Chief of Army Staff (2017), Chief of Naval Staff (2001), and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (2013).
The Role of DGAFMS
The DGAFMS is responsible for overall medical policies related to the Armed Forces. The position advises the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the Ministry of Defence on healthcare needs, while also coordinating medical services across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Key Facts About Vice Admiral Arti Sarin’s Appointment as first woman to lead DGAFMS
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin |
| Position | Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) |
| Date of Appointment | 1 October 2024 |
| Predecessor | Lt Gen Daljit Singh |
| Key Achievements | First woman DGAFMS, AVSM awardee |
| Major Roles Held | DG Medical Services (Navy and Air Force), Commandant of AFMC Pune |
Arti Sarin, First woman to lead DGAFMS -News Summary
- Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin is the first woman to lead the DGAFMS.
- She took over on 1 October 2024, succeeding Lt Gen Daljit Singh.
- She has over 38 years of service in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Her career highlights include serving as DG Medical Services (Navy and Air) and Director of AFMC Pune.
- Sarin’s appointment is seen as a key step in empowering women within the Indian Armed Forces.
- She has received numerous accolades, including the AVSM and Vishisht Seva Medal.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
Vice Admiral Arti Sarin is the first woman appointed as the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) in India.
She assumed the position on 1st October 2024.
She has served across all three branches of the Armed Forces and received prestigious awards like the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
Her appointment is a major step in empowering women and promoting gender equality in the Indian Armed Forces.
The DGAFMS oversees medical policies, advises the Ministry of Defence, and coordinates medical services for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.