Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), visited a frontline Field Hospital in the Lipa Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, where she commended the medical team’s unwavering commitment amidst challenging conditions. The visit underscored the critical role of the hospital in supporting military operations near the Line of Control (LoC), a region historically affected by insurgency.

During her visit, VAdm Sarin was briefed on the hospital’s operations and its vital role in providing medical support to both military personnel and local civilians under Operation Sadbhavana. Launched in 1998, this Indian Army initiative aims to “win hearts and minds” by delivering healthcare, empowering women, and supporting youth in border areas impacted by terrorism. The Admiral interacted with local residents receiving care, reinforcing the Armed Forces’ commitment to humanitarian efforts in the region.

VAdm Sarin also praised the high-quality training of Battlefield Nursing Assistants (BFNAs), who play a crucial role in delivering swift, life-saving care in combat zones. The BFNAs have been instrumental in remote areas, with their skills also proving vital during broader efforts like COVID-19 management. The medical team, dubbed the ‘Lipa Valley Healers,’ was lauded for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring operational readiness under tough circumstances.

The visit highlights the Indian Armed Forces’ broader mission to integrate community welfare with military objectives, fostering trust with the local population, including the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities near the LoC. VAdm Sarin’s engagement reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen medical services within the armed forces, ensuring both the well-being of troops and support for civilians in conflict-affected regions.

The event was attended by personnel from various branches of the military, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the Armed Forces Medical Services. The DGAFMS also acknowledged the contributions of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force medical branches in maintaining healthcare delivery under diverse and demanding conditions.