Lt Gen Sadhna Saxena Nair, VSM, is set to make history as the first woman to assume the role of Director General of Medical Services (Army) on August 1, 2024. This appointment marks a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Army, showcasing the increasing role of women in high-ranking positions within the armed forces.
Lt Gen Nair is a distinguished graduate of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune and was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1985. Throughout her illustrious career, she has demonstrated exemplary dedication and expertise in military medicine, earning her the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for her service.
Her upcoming role as DGMS (Army) will see her overseeing the medical services of the Indian Army, ensuring the health and readiness of its personnel. Lt Gen Nair’s appointment not only reflects her personal achievements but also signifies the Indian Army’s commitment to promoting diversity and equality within its ranks.
Earlier, Air Marshal Sadhna Saxena Nair took charge as the Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces), becoming the first women officer to hold the prestigious post.
She is effectively only the second woman officer who has served throughout in the Indian Air Force to be promoted to the rank of Air Marshal. The first woman officer to achieve this was Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay (Retd).