Surgeon Vice Admiral S Shankar Reviews Medical Readiness at INS Chilka, Inaugurates ARSH Clinic at INHS Nivarini
Surgeon Vice Admiral S Shankar, Director General Medical Services (Navy), visited INS Chilka and INHS Nivarini to assess medical readiness, review healthcare infrastructure and examine the medical support available to naval personnel and their families.
The visit covered both the training environment at INS Chilka and the healthcare services being delivered through INHS Nivarini, with attention focused on whether existing medical arrangements are meeting the needs of personnel at different stages of service. The review also emphasised the importance of sustaining strong medical preparedness at naval establishments that support trainees as well as those engaged in operational duties.
At INS Chilka, the DGMS (Navy) was briefed on the ab-initio training being conducted at the naval training establishment. The presentation included details of the medical support framework in place for personnel undergoing their initial training, as well as the healthcare arrangements designed to support them during this phase.
Following the review at INS Chilka, Surgeon Vice Admiral Shankar visited INHS Nivarini, where he examined the healthcare facilities and medical services available at the establishment. The review there was aimed at ensuring that the medical infrastructure and support systems remain aligned with the healthcare requirements of naval personnel and their families.
A major feature of the visit was the inauguration of the Adolescent Reproductive & Sexual Health (ARSH) Clinic at INHS Nivarini. The new facility has been set up to provide accessible and comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the specific health and wellbeing needs of adolescents.
The establishment of the ARSH Clinic reflects the Indian Navy’s focus on preventive, comprehensive and holistic healthcare. It is intended to improve access to appropriate health services and support for adolescents and families within the naval community, expanding the scope of care available through the Navy’s medical system.
Across both engagements, the visit highlighted the Navy’s continuing effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure while keeping medical services accessible, responsive and centred on the overall wellbeing of its personnel and their families. The review also reinforced the role of medical preparedness in supporting naval establishments, especially those responsible for training and those linked to operational responsibilities.
