Lt Gen Devendra Sharma Reviews INHS Asvini's Role in Enhancing Tri-Service Medical Cooperation and Combat Readiness

Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, who commands the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), made a notable visit to the Indian Naval Hospital Ship (INHS) Asvini, the School of Medical Assistants, and the Institute of Naval Medicine on July 16, 2026. The visit aimed to assess their roles in enhancing military healthcare, medical training, and research, highlighting the increasing importance of tri-service cooperation in combat medical support and the Indian Armed Forces' dedication to delivering top-tier healthcare to its personnel and their families.

Throughout his visit, Lt Gen Devendra Sharma received detailed briefings on the advanced medical capabilities, specialized training programs, and ongoing research projects being conducted at these premier naval medical institutions. He evaluated the facilities' contributions to providing comprehensive tertiary healthcare services and preparing military medical personnel for the challenges posed by both current and future operational environments.

The Army Commander praised INHS Asvini for its exceptional standards of medical care, achieved through its cutting-edge medical infrastructure and patient-focused healthcare delivery systems. He acknowledged the institution's role in offering specialized tertiary healthcare services while incorporating modern medical technologies and innovative treatment methods.

INHS Asvini is recognized as a leading center of excellence within the Armed Forces Medical Services, offering specialized healthcare across various disciplines. It significantly contributes to medical education, research, and operational medical readiness, extending beyond conventional healthcare to provide tailored support for defense personnel and their families.

The importance of cross-training initiatives among the three services was emphasized by the Army Commander as a vital element in strengthening tri-service medical cooperation. With jointness and integration increasingly influencing military operations, sharing expertise, operational experiences, and best practices among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force is crucial for boosting military medical capabilities.

Lt Gen Sharma noted that cross-training visits and institutional exchanges not only enhance professional excellence but also contribute to a common operational understanding and improved interoperability across military medical services. These collaborative efforts enhance the Armed Forces' ability to provide timely and effective medical support during both peace and operational missions.

The visit placed a strong emphasis on Combat Medical Support as a key area of focus. The Army Commander stressed the necessity of continuously reinforcing medical preparedness to meet the complex healthcare needs of modern battlefields. Contemporary military operations require highly trained medical personnel capable of delivering advanced trauma care and life-saving interventions in challenging conditions.

Discussions also highlighted the significance of building mental resilience among military personnel as an essential part of comprehensive healthcare support. Acknowledging the psychological and emotional challenges faced by military service members, the Armed Forces prioritize initiatives designed to boost mental well-being and resilience at all ranks. These efforts are key to maintaining operational effectiveness and force readiness.

Lt Gen Devendra Sharma acknowledged the substantial efforts by INHS Asvini in medical innovation and research. Progress in military medicine plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes, enhancing combat casualty care, and developing future-ready healthcare capabilities suited to unique operational demands.

Innovation in military healthcare is increasingly important, encompassing advances in trauma management, telemedicine, preventive healthcare, medical technologies, and specialized treatment protocols for personnel in diverse environments. Institutions like INHS Asvini continue to play a significant role in these areas through sustained research and professional excellence.

The visit also underscored the critical role of specialized medical training institutions such as the School of Medical Assistants and the Institute of Naval Medicine in preparing skilled healthcare professionals for both operational and tertiary healthcare settings. Their contributions are essential in maintaining the Armed Forces Medical Services' tradition of excellence in military medicine.

Lt Gen Sharma reaffirmed the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration across military healthcare institutions to effectively address future challenges. He noted that integrating advanced medical capabilities, specialized training, and tri-service cooperation will remain crucial in strengthening the healthcare ecosystem of the Indian Armed Forces.

The visit illustrates the Indian Armed Forces' ongoing commitment to providing world-class medical support while continually enhancing operational medical preparedness through innovation, jointness, and excellence. By boosting tri-service cooperation and advancing medical capabilities, institutions like INHS Asvini play a vital role in safeguarding the health and well-being of the nation's military community.