In a remarkable display of medical expertise and calm professionalism, two Indian Army doctors serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) successfully handled a serious in-flight medical emergency aboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET334.
Lieutenant Colonel Urmimala Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Kirti Sethi, both deployed at the Indian Level 2+ Hospital under UNMISS, stabilised a passenger who developed seizure-like symptoms during the flight. The condition was suspected to have been triggered by hypoglycaemia, a dangerous drop in blood sugar level that can rapidly progress to unconsciousness, coma, or even life-threatening complications if not treated in time.
The emergency unfolded when the aircraft was cruising at nearly 30,000 feet. With limited medical resources available onboard and no immediate access to a hospital, the situation demanded quick assessment, clinical judgement, and decisive action. The two Indian Army medical officers immediately stepped forward, examined the passenger, identified the likely cause, and initiated timely intervention using the available onboard medical support.
Their swift response helped stabilise the passenger and prevented the situation from deteriorating further. Owing to their effective handling of the emergency, the flight did not have to be diverted, and the journey continued safely.
Passengers from different nationalities reportedly appreciated the doctors for their quick and composed intervention. Their calm conduct under pressure reflected the discipline, preparedness, and professional standards associated with the Indian Army Medical Corps and Indian peacekeepers serving in United Nations missions.
Lieutenant Colonel Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Sethi are part of the Indian medical team deployed with UNMISS, where Indian Army doctors and healthcare personnel provide medical support in challenging and often unpredictable conditions. The Indian Level 2+ Hospital plays an important role in delivering advanced medical care to UN personnel and supporting peacekeeping operations in South Sudan.
The incident also highlights the wider humanitarian role played by Indian peacekeepers across the world. Indian medical officers deployed under the UN flag are not only responsible for supporting mission personnel but often extend critical assistance to civilians and others in emergency situations. Their contribution strengthens India’s long-standing reputation as one of the leading contributors to United Nations peacekeeping.
The Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping recognised the episode as an example of service beyond assigned duty. The successful management of the mid-air emergency demonstrated the officers’ ability to provide life-saving care even in difficult and resource-limited conditions.
The actions of Lieutenant Colonel Urmimala Bhattacharya and Lieutenant Colonel Kirti Sethi stand as a proud reminder of the Indian Army’s ethos of “Service Before Self.” Their timely intervention aboard Ethiopian Airlines ET334 not only saved a passenger from a potentially grave medical crisis but also showcased the dedication, skill, and humanitarian spirit of Indian Army doctors serving far from home.
