New Delhi: Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has retired after an illustrious 41-year career in the Indian Armed Forces, marking the end of a landmark tenure as the first woman to serve as Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).

Sarin took charge of the apex military medical position in 2024, becoming the first woman officer to lead the Armed Forces Medical Services. During her tenure, she oversaw medical services supporting personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force, with a focus on strengthening healthcare delivery and medical preparedness for the armed forces.

Her career has included several senior leadership and specialist medical assignments across the military medical establishment. Her elevation to the DGAFMS post represented a significant milestone for women in the armed forces and reflected their expanding presence in senior command and leadership roles.

After her retirement on August 31, Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja took over as the new DGAFMS. He was serving as Director General Medical Services (Air) before assuming the top position.

Sarin’s retirement closes a distinguished chapter in the history of India’s military medical services, with her career standing as an important example of women reaching the highest levels of leadership in the armed forces.

BI Bureau