Lt Gen Sadhna Nair Makes History as First Woman Director General of Indian Army's Medical Services

In a historic milestone for the Indian Army, Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair took over as the Director General of Medical Services (Army) on Thursday, becoming the first woman to be appointed to this prestigious position. Her appointment marks a significant step forward in gender representation within the Indian Armed Forces.

Lt Gen Sadhna Nair's journey to this landmark role is a testament to her exemplary career and dedication. Graduating with distinction from the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, she was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1985. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career.

Before her current appointment, Nair had already broken barriers as the first woman doctor to be named Director General of Hospital Services (Armed Forces). She has held equivalent high-ranking positions in the Indian Air Force and Navy, demonstrating her versatile leadership across different branches of the military. 

Her qualifications are extensive and impressive. Lt Gen Nair holds a postgraduate degree in family medicine and diplomas in maternal and child health and healthcare management. She has also undergone specialized training in medical informatics at AIIMS, New Delhi, and trained in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) warfare with the Israeli Defence Forces. Additionally, she has studied military medical ethics with the Swiss Armed Forces, showcasing her commitment to comprehensive medical and ethical training.

Throughout her career, Nair has been a trailblazer. She was the first woman principal medical officer of the Western Air Command and the IAF’s Training Command. Her expertise has also been recognized at the national level; she was nominated as an expert member of the Dr. Kasturirangan committee, contributing to the medical education component of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2019.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lt Gen Nair's personal life is equally intertwined with the military. She is married to Air Marshal KP Nair (Retd), making them a distinguished couple in the armed forces. Her family legacy is rich with military service, as she is also the daughter and sister of military doctors and the mother of Indian Air Force fighter pilots.

Lt Gen Sadhna Nair’s appointment as the Director General of Medical Services (Army) is not just a personal achievement but a beacon of progress for women in the military. Her career is a blend of pioneering firsts and steadfast dedication, setting a powerful example for future generations of women in the armed forces.

In summary, Lt Gen Nair’s new role underscores the evolving dynamics of the Indian Army, embracing diversity and breaking gender barriers. Her journey is a narrative of excellence and determination, inspiring many within and beyond the military community.