Brigadier Poonam Raj Becomes First Woman to Command Forward Hospital in Field Area

In a historic first for the Indian Armed Forces, Brigadier Poonam Raj has assumed the prestigious role of Commandant at the General Hospital in Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir, on January 21, 2025. This appointment marks a significant milestone as Brig.

Brigadier Poonam Raj becomes the first female officer to hold such a position in the rank of Brigadier, commanding a forward hospital in a challenging Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorism (CI/CT) environment.

Brigadier Poonam Raj, an esteemed ENT surgeon with specialized training in cochlear implants and middle ear surgery, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Throughout her career, she has held various administrative and clinical positions within the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), showcasing her versatility and commitment to military healthcare.

The appointment was celebrated by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), who extended her compliments to Brig. Raj, recognizing her pioneering role and the importance of her leadership in such a critical position.

The event was marked by a formal ceremony, as evidenced by images shared on social media, where Brig. Raj was seen receiving the command, signing official documents, and posing with fellow officers in a display of camaraderie and respect. This transition of command not only highlights the increasing role of women in high-ranking military positions but also underscores the AFMS’s commitment to excellence in medical services under diverse and demanding conditions.

Brigadier Poonam Raj’s appointment is a beacon of progress in gender equality within the military, serving as an inspiration for aspiring female officers and reinforcing the capabilities of women in leadership roles within the armed forces. Her leadership at the General Hospital in Rajouri is expected to bring innovative medical practices and enhanced care to the personnel stationed in one of the most sensitive regions of the country.