Vice Admiral Arti Sarin is not just a name in the Armed Forces she is a symbol of resilience, dedication, and the power of “Nari Shakti.” Rising to become the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), she is the first woman in Indian history to hold this prestigious position, and today, she stands tall as the highest-ranking woman officer across the Armed Forces.
A Trailblazer in All Three Uniforms
What makes her journey truly extraordinary is her rare distinction of serving in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces
- Indian Army: From Lieutenant to Captain.
- Indian Navy: From Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral.
- Indian Air Force: Achieving the rank of Air Marshal.
In doing so, she has achieved what very few in the world can claim living the spirit of tri-service integration by donning the olive green, navy blue, and sky blue uniforms.
38 Years of Exemplary Service
In her illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has held some of the most critical academic, clinical, and leadership appointments. She has served as:
- Director General Medical Services (Navy)
- Director General Medical Services (Air)
- Command Medical Officer of Southern and Western Naval Commands
- Commanding Officer of INHS Asvini
- Professor & Head of Radiation Oncology at Army Hospital (R&R) and Command Hospital (SC), Pune
She was instrumental during the COVID-19 crisis, setting up quarantine facilities, leading innovative medical solutions, and ensuring the safety of soldiers and their families in unprecedented times.
Scholar, Specialist, and Innovator
An alumna of Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, she earned her MBBS and MD in Radiodiagnosis. She later completed her Diplomate National Board in Radiation Oncology from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and advanced training in Gamma Knife Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh, USA.
Her academic brilliance seamlessly combined with military leadership has allowed her to pioneer advancements in oncology, military healthcare, and medical innovation.
Recognitions and Awards
Vice Admiral Arti Sarin’s service has been recognised at the highest levels:
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) – 2024
- Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) – 2021
- Chief of Army Staff Commendation (2017)
- Chief of Naval Staff Commendation (2001)
- GOC-in-C Commendation (2013)
She was also appointed by the Supreme Court’s National Task Force to develop safe working protocols for medical professionals a testament to her credibility beyond the Armed Forces.
An Inspiration for Generations
As the third woman officer ever to reach the rank of Vice Admiral, after Punita Arora and Sheila S. Mathai, she has redefined what women can achieve in uniform. Her leadership along the Line-of-Control during insurgencies showed her courage in adversity, as she cared for both military and civilian populations.
Today, as DGAFMS, she is not only responsible for shaping the medical policies of the Armed Forces but also for inspiring countless young women to step forward and serve the nation.
Her life story is proof that determination knows no boundaries neither gender nor service branch could limit her will to serve. She embodies the true essence of a soldier, a doctor, and above all, a leader.
