Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja Takes Helm of Armed Forces Medical Services
The Indian government has appointed Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja as the new Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), effective August 31, 2026. He will take over the position following the retirement of the current DGAFMS, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin. Air Marshal Thareja is currently serving as the Director General Medical Services (Air).
Background and Achievements
A distinguished alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, Air Marshal Thareja was commissioned into the Indian Air Force in December 1986. He earned his MD in Medicine in 1997 and a DM in Gastroenterology from the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, in 2005, where he was honored with the Best DM Student Award. Known for his outstanding military career, he has consistently achieved ‘A’ grades in all military courses and is also an alumnus of the National Defence College.
Career Highlights
With nearly four decades of service in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), Air Marshal Thareja has made remarkable contributions in various fields, including clinical practice, academic research, operations, and administration. His notable positions include Senior Consultant (Medicine) at the DGAFMS office, Commandant of Military Hospital Pathankot, Commandant of Command Hospital Lucknow, and Director & Commandant of AFMC, Pune, among others.
Transformational Leadership
As the Director General Medical Services (Air), Air Marshal Thareja has implemented numerous initiatives to improve medical readiness for operational missions. He played a key role in enhancing the AFMS’s preparedness for India’s Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight Mission. Additionally, he was instrumental in the deployment of the BHISHM Cube, which significantly bolstered rapid medical response capabilities for various operational and humanitarian efforts.
Acknowledged Expertise
Air Marshal Thareja is not only a skilled clinician and educator but has also mentored many postgraduate and super-specialty students. He is the author of over 50 scientific publications in esteemed national and international medical journals. His exemplary service has been recognized through multiple accolades, including the Sena Medal and the Vishisht Seva Medal, which he has received twice (VSM & Bar).
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