Maj Gen Rachel Thomas Takes Command as New Leader of Military Nursing Service
Maj Gen Rachel Thomas has taken on the role of Additional Director General of the Military Nursing Service as of June 1, 2026, marking a significant change in leadership within the Armed Forces Medical Services. She succeeds Maj Gen Lissamma PV, who retired on May 31, 2026, after an illustrious career of four decades.
Maj Gen Thomas, an alumna of the College of Nursing at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune, began her service in the Military Nursing Service on June 1, 1988. Her career, which spans nearly 40 years, is noted for her extensive professional expertise, administrative acumen, and dedication to patient care within the military medical framework.
Throughout her career, Maj Gen Thomas has held numerous clinical and administrative roles in key military hospitals under the Armed Forces Medical Services. Her service has included significant positions in border hospitals within the Northern and Eastern Commands, where she worked in challenging environments to provide medical support to troops in operationally sensitive regions.
Her new role as Additional Director General comes during a period of ongoing evolution in military healthcare, necessitated by the modern demands of armed forces. The Military Nursing Service is crucial in delivering quality nursing care to active service members, veterans, and their families, also contributing extensively to military hospitals, field medical support, specialist care, and patient management across the AFMS network.
Maj Gen Thomas's nearly four decades of service are characterized by her professional excellence, commitment, and compassionate approach to patient care. Her experience in clinical, administrative, and command roles is anticipated to enhance the Military Nursing Service's operations and its commitment to quality healthcare delivery.
As she assumes this vital position, the Military Nursing Service has reiterated its commitment to preserving the esteemed traditions of military nursing within the Armed Forces Medical Services. Under her leadership, the service is expected to continue fostering excellence in patient care, professional standards, and dedicated national service.
This appointment also highlights the growing recognition of female leaders within the Armed Forces Medical Services, particularly in influential positions that impact policy, administration, and nursing standards. Maj Gen Rachel Thomas’s promotion to ADG of the Military Nursing Service is a proud moment for the MNS and the broader AFMS community.
With her distinguished background, solid professional foundation, and extensive experience in military healthcare, Maj Gen Rachel Thomas is poised to offer stable leadership and direction to the Military Nursing Service as it remains committed to its mission of compassionate care, discipline, professionalism, and service to the Armed Forces.
