Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Becomes First Woman Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services

Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin made history on Tuesday as the first woman to assume the role of Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), according to an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the Armed Forces Medical Services, as she becomes the 46th individual to hold the position.

Vice Admiral Sarin has a distinguished 38-year career in the Armed Forces Medical Services, having held high-profile positions including Director General Medical Services for both the Navy and Air Force, as well as Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. “She has been directly responsible for shaping medical policy matters across the armed forces,” the Ministry of Defence stated.

An alumna of AFMC Pune, Vice Admiral Sarin was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985. She holds a Doctor of Medicine in Radiodiagnosis from AFMC and a Diplomate of National Board in Radiation Oncology from the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Her advanced training was furthered with gamma knife surgery expertise attained at the University of Pittsburgh.

The Ministry highlighted her numerous academic and administrative roles, emphasizing her tenure as Professor and Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) and Command Hospital (Southern Command) in Pune. Her leadership extended to being the Commanding Officer of the INHS Asvini hospital and Command Medical Officer in the Indian Navy‘s Southern and Western Naval Commands.

Vice Admiral Sarin was also recently appointed to the National Task Force established by the Supreme Court, aimed at creating safer working conditions and establishing protocols for medical professionals. “She stands as a beacon for the ‘Nari Shakti‘ initiative,” the Ministry noted, referring to the Indian government’s effort to empower women across sectors.

Throughout her career, Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin has been honored with several commendations, including the Vishist Seva Medal in 2021 and the Ati Vishist Seva Medal in 2024 for her exceptional service. Additionally, she has received commendations from the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief for her contributions.