In a groundbreaking achievement, Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair has been appointed as the Director General Medical Services (Army), making her the first woman to hold this prestigious position. This historic appointment marks a significant milestone in the Indian Army’s journey towards gender equality and empowerment.
Lieutenant General Nair’s career is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and leadership. She graduated from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, with a distinguished academic record and was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1985. Over the years, she has held various key positions, including the first woman Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces).
Lieutenant General Nair’s educational background is as impressive as her professional achievements. She holds a postgraduate degree in Family Medicine and diplomas in Maternal and Child Health and Health Care Management. Additionally, she underwent a two-year training program in Medical Informatics at AIIMS, New Delhi. Her training also includes Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Warfare with the Israeli Defence Forces and Military Medical Ethics with the Swiss Armed Forces in Spiez, Switzerland.
Three generations of Lieutenant General Nair’s family have served in the Armed Forces over the last seven decades. Her commitment to the nation is deeply rooted in her family’s legacy of service. She is married to Air Marshal KP Nair (retd) and has the unique distinction of being a daughter and sister of military doctors, and wife and mother of IAF fighter pilots.
Recognitions and Awards
For her meritorious service, Lieutenant General Nair has been awarded the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of Western Air Command (WAC) and Chief of the Air Staff Commendations, as well as the Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India. Her contributions to the medical field and the Armed Forces have been widely recognized and celebrated.
As the Director General Medical Services (Army), Lieutenant General Nair aims to further enhance the medical services provided to the Indian Army. Her vision includes leveraging advanced medical technologies, improving healthcare management, and ensuring the well-being of all personnel. Her leadership is expected to bring about significant advancements in the Army’s medical services.
Conclusion
Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair’s appointment as the Director General Medical Services (Army) is a historic moment for the Indian Army and a proud achievement for the nation. Her exemplary career, dedication to service, and visionary leadership make her an inspiration for future generations. As she takes on this new role, the Indian Army’s medical services are poised for a transformative journey under her guidance.