Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, the first woman to serve as Director General Medical Services (Army), has retired after an illustrious 39-year career in the Indian Army. Her retirement was marked by a ceremonial farewell at the Army Medical Corps Centre and College in Lucknow, attended by senior officers, including Lieutenant General Shivinder Singh, and personnel of the corps.
Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair joined the Indian Army in December 1985 and rose through the ranks to become a trailblazer in military medical services. Appointed as Director General Medical Services (Army) on August 1, 2024, she became the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Prior to this, she served as the first woman Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) in the rank of Air Marshal, showcasing her exceptional leadership across the armed forces’ medical domain.
During her farewell address at a Special Sainik Sammelan in Lucknow, Lt Gen Nair emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest standards of medical care and professionalism within the Army Medical Corps. Her tenure as Senior Colonel Commandant of the corps was marked by significant contributions to enhancing healthcare services for military personnel.
Her distinguished service was recognized with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025 and the Vishisht Seva Medal earlier in her career, reflecting her dedication and impact. Lt Gen Nair’s career stands as an inspiration, particularly for women in the armed forces, breaking barriers and setting a legacy of excellence.
The Indian Army and the Army Medical Corps expressed their gratitude for her unparalleled contributions, wishing her well in her future endeavors. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations of medical professionals in the military.
Lt Gen CG Muralidharan has assumed charge as the Director General of Medical Services (Army), succeeding Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, AVSM, VSM, who retired on 30 September 2025 after over four decades of dedicated service to the nation.
