Pune, 11th July 2026: A total of 141 medical graduates from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) were commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) during the institute's 60th Convocation Parade held at Captain Devashish Sharma Kirti Chakra Parade Ground on Friday.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services, said they now carry the responsibility of serving both as doctors and soldiers.
She said wearing the doctor's white coat and the uniform of the Indian Armed Forces is a rare honour that comes with a commitment to professionalism, discipline, integrity, compassion and service to the nation.
Of the 141 graduates commissioned, 112 joined the Indian Army, 12 the Indian Navy, and 17 the Indian Air Force. The parade was led by Lieutenant Nikhil Kumar Jha in the presence of AFMC Director and Commandant Lieutenant General Pankaj P. Rao, Deputy Commandant and Dean Major General Atul Seth, senior officers, faculty members and families.
Vice Admiral Sarin said internship marks the beginning of a doctor's real learning journey. She encouraged the young officers to learn not only from books but also from patients, nurses, technicians and experienced colleagues. She stressed that communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving would be essential throughout their careers.
She added that while technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, genomics, precision medicine and digital healthcare are transforming medicine, they can never replace the empathy and human touch of a caring doctor. Technology, she said, should remain a tool, while compassion must remain at the heart of medical practice.
Calling on the new officers to uphold the Armed Forces' values, Sarin said true leadership comes from accepting responsibility, making sound decisions in difficult situations and earning the trust of colleagues.
She urged them to live by the principle of "Service Before Self," maintain physical fitness, practise financial discipline, pursue research and remain lifelong learners.
During the ceremony, Flying Officer Ananya Phadke from Pune was honoured with the President's Gold Medal and the Kalinga Trophy for being the best all-round graduating cadet. Several other cadets were also recognised with medals and awards for excellence in academics, leadership, sports and extracurricular achievements.
