Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair has made an indelible mark in Indian military history, firmly establishing herself as a transformative force in military healthcare. In recognition of her exceptional service, she was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2025. As the first woman to serve as the Director General Medical Services (Army), she has redefined the standards of leadership within the armed forces, blending nearly four decades of frontline experience with strategic medical management and an innovative approach to healthcare.
Born in September 1964 at the Army Base Hospital in New Delhi, Lt Gen Nair comes from a lineage of military doctors. Her foundational education occurred in various schools across Prayagraj and Lucknow. She completed her MBBS degree at the esteemed Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, graduating in December 1985. A lifelong learner, she pursued further education, earning a postgraduate degree in Family Medicine and additional diplomas in Maternal and Child Health and Healthcare Management. Her commitment to academic excellence led her to advanced training in Medical Informatics at AIIMS Delhi and global exposure through CBRN warfare training with the Israeli Defence Forces, as well as a course in Military Medical Ethics with the Swiss Armed Forces.
Commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in 1985, Lt Gen Nair’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. She has held significant roles, becoming the first woman to serve as the Principal Medical Officer of the Western and Training Command of the Indian Air Force, the Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) with the rank of Air Marshal, and finally, the Director General Medical Services (Army) as of August 1, 2024. Her leadership was vital during major operations, including Operation Brass-tacks in 1987, Operation Vijay during the Kargil conflict in 1999, and Operation Parakram in 2002. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, she was instrumental in managing the armed forces’ medical response efforts.
Throughout her illustrious career, Lt Gen Nair has received numerous accolades, including the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), and commendations from the Chief of the Air Staff and Western Air Command. Her contributions extend beyond military service to national policymaking, as evidenced by her involvement in the Kasturirangan Committee for the National Education Policy, particularly in medical education.
Her tenure as a leader in the Indian Army Medical Corps has witnessed significant strides in modernizing military medicine. Initiatives under her guidance have transitioned to embracing digital health solutions in remote areas, implementing artificial intelligence and telemedicine for diagnostics, enhancing mental health services, and expanding women-specific healthcare programs. She has overseen improvements in field hospital operations and logistics, ensuring that military medical services are inclusive, responsive, and prepared for contemporary challenges in hybrid warfare.
Leadership qualities inherent to Lt Gen Nair include discipline, empathy, and innovation, underpinned by a steadfast dedication to soldier welfare. She actively mentors young officers and medical professionals, especially women, encouraging them to overcome barriers and serve with integrity and excellence. Her influence in transforming the perception of women in military roles speaks volumes; she is not only an officer but a strategic leader and innovator.
Lieutenant General Sadhna Nair’s career reflects a profound commitment to progress and purpose within India’s armed forces. Her receipt of the AVSM in 2025 marks a significant milestone, honoring not just her achievements but also signifying a pivotal moment in the narrative of women in the Indian military. As India steers into a future anchored in integrated and technology-driven defense strategies, leaders such as Lt Gen Nair will continue to motivate and guide future generations through their unwavering courage, competence, and conviction.
