In a historic first for the Indian Armed Forces, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has been appointed as the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), becoming the first woman doctor to hold the prestigious position. Taking charge of the medical services for the Armed Forces, Surg Vice Admiral Sarin expressed deep gratitude for the appointment, calling it a “tremendous honour.”

“As the first woman officer to be appointed to this position, it is a huge honour,” she told media. “I would like to continue the legacy of my seniors who have set out a vision document in keeping with Viksit Bharat,” she added, referencing the nation’s vision for a developed and progressive India.

At 60, Surg Vice Admiral Sarin is poised to lead the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) for the next two years, overseeing the medical care and welfare of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and their dependents. With her extensive experience and career, she is focused on enhancing the healthcare landscape for the military community. “I intend to strengthen the holistic healthcare of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and their dependents,” she said, emphasizing the need for advanced, digitized healthcare delivery and an increased focus on medical research and innovation. As DGAFMS, Sarin will be directly responsible to the Ministry of Defence for the overarching medical policies concerning the Armed Forces. Her appointment marks a pivotal moment in the 38-year career of the Flag Officer, who has served in various prestigious roles across all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Her career is distinguished not only by her leadership roles but also by her commitment to patient care, for which she has received numerous accolades. In 2024, she was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, following the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2021. Her service has also earned her commendations from the Chief of Army Staff (2017), Chief of Naval Staff (2001), and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (2013).Beyond her professional accomplishments, Surg Vice Admiral Sarin is a strong advocate for women in the Armed Forces, frequently encouraging young women to pursue careers in military medicine. She is a shining beacon of the Nari Shakti initiative, a government program aimed at empowering women across sectors. Her rise to this historic role exemplifies the growing representation and impact of women in traditionally male-dominated fields like the military.

Surg Vice Admiral Sarin’s resume speaks volumes about her commitment to the medical profession and her exemplary leadership. Before taking up the position of DGAFMS, she served as the Director General Medical Services (Navy) and (Air), and as the Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. Her experience also spans academic and administrative roles, including her tenure as Professor and Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (Southern Command) in Pune. Additionally, she commanded INHS Asvini, the flagship hospital of the Indian Navy.

As she embarks on her tenure as the 46th DGAFMS, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin remains committed to delivering cutting-edge healthcare to the Armed Forces while upholding the values of dedication, innovation, and service that have defined her career.