Major General Mathews Jacob has officially assumed the role of Major General (Medical) for the Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa Area, marking a significant leadership transition in the Indian Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS). The announcement was made by the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), Ministry of Defence.
Prior to this appointment, Maj Gen Jacob served as the Commandant of the prestigious Command Hospital (Western Command), where he led one of India’s premier military healthcare institutions. Under his leadership, the hospital maintained its reputation for clinical excellence, advanced training, and medical research, serving the needs of military personnel and their families in the Western Command.
Widely acknowledged for his administrative acumen and deep commitment to medical education, Maj Gen Jacob brings decades of experience to his new position. His role will be vital in coordinating and managing the delivery of healthcare across major military and naval installations located in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa, including Mumbai, which is home to critical defense infrastructure.
The AFMS is responsible for the health and medical readiness of more than 1.3 million armed forces personnel across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. In this capacity, Maj Gen Jacob will oversee health services operations, ensure readiness for emergency medical support, and facilitate coordination among the tri-services. His leadership is expected to reinforce the region’s medical preparedness, particularly in responding to dynamic field conditions and peacetime welfare needs.
Senior officers across military circles welcomed the appointment, reflecting confidence in Maj Gen Jacob’s ability to lead with distinction. A ceremonial reception was held in Mumbai to mark the occasion, with visuals showing the General Officer being received in front of a military helicopter and later posing with colleagues beneath the emblematic Ashoka Chakra.
Maj Gen Jacob’s academic orientation also complements AFMS initiatives focused on continuous learning and training. His involvement is expected to strengthen links with the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, the institution that has been training defense medical personnel since 1948. With a focus on medical innovation and officer development, his leadership aligns with the AFMS’s mission to build a future-ready medical corps.
As he steps into this important role, Maj Gen Mathews Jacob’s tenure is poised to uphold and enhance the high standards of care that the Indian Armed Forces depend upon. His experience and commitment are set to benefit service members and their families throughout the strategically significant western region of India.
