Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin: Leadership Insights from Serving Across India's Army, Navy, and Air Force

At the She Shakti 2025 conclave, attention was drawn to women who are redefining leadership roles within the armed forces. Among the notable figures was Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, who currently serves as the Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services (DG AFMS). Sarin holds the unique distinction of having served in all three branches of the Indian armed forces.

During a conversation with Firstpost’s Managing Editor Palki Sharma, Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin—who is also the first woman to lead the AFMS—shared insights from her journey across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, detailing the valuable lessons she gained from each branch.

Surgeon Vice Admiral Sarin began her career as a young officer in the Indian Army, where she quickly assumed significant responsibilities. She recalled, “The Armed Forces confer leadership on their officers very early. You start with a small medical inspection room—taking care of patients and managing the space administratively. That’s where my leadership journey began.”

Sarin’s extensive 36-year tenure in the Indian Navy saw her rise from Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral. She emphasized that serving in remote locations honed her resourcefulness and communication skills. “In the Navy, I learnt how to survive with fewer resources, how to communicate, and how to lead in difficult conditions,” she explained.

Although her time with the Indian Air Force was brief, it was impactful. “I learnt a lot from aviators—to be very precise, very quick, very professional,” she remarked, noting the lasting influence it had on her approach.

Sarin pointed out that the tri-service nature of the AFMS allowed for seamless transitions between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. “I’ve served in Army hospitals in naval uniform for 12 years,” she stated, emphasizing how her leadership in medicine gradually evolved into administrative leadership over the years.

As the DG AFMS, Sarin continues to set high standards in military medicine and leadership. Her career serves as an inspiration not only to women in uniform but also to officers throughout the armed forces.