Lt Gen Sadhna Saxena Nair becomes first woman to lead Army Medical Services

Lt Gen Sadhna Saxena Nair has made history by assuming the position of Director General Medical Services (Army) today, becoming the first woman to hold this esteemed office. This landmark appointment follows her notable service as the Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) where she was the first woman to achieve the rank of Air Marshal.

Lt Gen Nair's distinguished career began with her graduation from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, where she was recognized for her exceptional academic performance. She was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1985. Her impressive qualifications include a Post Graduate degree in Family Medicine, Diplomas in Maternal & Child Health and Health Care Management, and a two-year training program in Medical Informatics at AIIMS, New Delhi.

Her expertise extends beyond traditional medical training. Lt Gen Nair has received specialized training in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Warfare from the Israeli Defence Forces and in Military Medical Ethics from the Swiss Armed Forces in Spiez. She also made history as the first woman to serve as Principal Medical Officer for both the Western Air Command and Training Command of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

In addition to her operational roles, Lt Gen Nair was an expert member of the Dr. Kasturirangan Committee, contributing to the medical education component of the National Education Policy. Her meritorious service has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Commendation, Chief of the Air Staff Commendation, and the Vishisht Seva Medal, awarded by the President of India.

Lt Gen Nair's appointment marks a significant milestone for the Indian Army, underscoring her trailblazing contributions to military medicine and her role as a pioneering leader in the armed forces.