Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja will become the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) on Aug. 31, 2026 [1], [2].
As the senior-most medical officer of the Indian Armed Forces, the DGAFMS oversees the health and medical readiness of the nation's military personnel. This transition ensures the continuity of medical leadership during a period of strategic personnel rotations.
Thareja is slated to succeed Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, who will vacate the position upon her retirement [3], [4]. The appointment marks a transition in leadership for the national medical services that support the army, navy, and air force.
A native of Meerut, Thareja previously served as the chief of the Command Hospital in Lucknow [5]. His appointment follows a career of leadership within the military's medical infrastructure, positioning him to lead the overarching medical strategy for the armed forces.
The handover is scheduled for Aug. 31 [1]. While some reports initially omitted the year, official records and supporting documentation confirm the transition will occur in 2026 [2].
This appointment is part of a broader sequence of leadership changes within the Indian military's medical wing. The DGAFMS role is critical for coordinating healthcare delivery across different branches of service, and maintaining operational health standards for troops in the field.
“Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja will become the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services”
The appointment of Air Marshal Thareja ensures a seamless transition of authority within the Indian military's medical hierarchy following the retirement of Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin. By appointing a former Command Hospital chief, the Indian government maintains a leadership profile with direct experience in high-level hospital administration and operational medical oversight.
