Surgeon Vice Admiral S. Shankar, Director General Medical Services (Navy), undertook his maiden visit to the Western Naval Command from 22 to 24 June 2026, during which he visited INHS Asvini, the Indian Navy’s premier tertiary care hospital in Mumbai.
During the visit, the DGMS (Navy) conducted a comprehensive review of the hospital’s patient care facilities, operational preparedness, medical infrastructure, training programmes, research initiatives and ongoing innovations in military healthcare.
Senior medical officers briefed Surg Vice Admiral Shankar on the hospital’s capabilities, specialised medical services and efforts to enhance healthcare delivery for serving personnel, veterans and their families. The review also covered advancements in medical technology, healthcare management and initiatives aimed at improving operational medical support.
The DGMS (Navy) assessed the hospital’s readiness to provide high-quality medical care during both routine operations and emergency situations, while also reviewing measures undertaken to strengthen professional training and clinical excellence.
Particular emphasis was placed on research and innovation in military medicine, with discussions focusing on the adoption of modern healthcare practices and the development of solutions tailored to the unique requirements of Armed Forces personnel.
Commending the hospital staff, Surg Vice Admiral Shankar praised the dedication, professionalism and commitment displayed by doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in delivering exceptional medical care to beneficiaries.
He lauded INHS Asvini for maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery and acknowledged its significant contribution to supporting operational readiness through quality medical services and advanced healthcare capabilities.
Officials noted that the visit reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to strengthening military healthcare infrastructure, promoting medical excellence and fostering innovation to meet evolving healthcare requirements.
The interaction also provided an opportunity to recognise the efforts of healthcare professionals who continue to play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of naval personnel and their families.
The visit concluded with the DGMS (Navy) expressing confidence in the hospital’s continued pursuit of excellence and its role as a leading institution in military healthcare, research and medical training.
