The 57th AMC Biennial Conference, a prestigious and highly anticipated tri-service medical event, is being hosted at the AMC Centre & College, Lucknow, from 24–26 March 2025. This esteemed gathering brings together the top medical leadership from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, providing a platform to deliberate on critical issues, discuss advancements in military healthcare, and develop strategies to enhance the medical support system for the Indian Armed Forces. The conference plays a vital role in shaping the future roadmap of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), ensuring that military personnel receive the highest standards of medical care both in peacetime and operational environments.
Paying Tribute to AMC Brave Hearts
A significant highlight of the conference was the solemn tribute paid to the valiant soldiers of the Armed Forces Medical Corps (AMC) at Shradddhanjali, the AMC War Memorial. Senior medical dignitaries, including Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin (Director General Armed Forces Medical Services – DGAFMS), Lieutenant General Sadhna S Nair (Director General Medical Services Army & Colonel Commandant), Surgeon Vice Admiral Kavita Sahai (DGMS Navy), and Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja (DGMS Air), gathered to honor the legacy and sacrifices of AMC personnel who laid down their lives in service to the nation. The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the selfless dedication and bravery of the AMC personnel who have been instrumental in providing life-saving care on battlefields and in disaster-stricken areas.
Inaugural Session and Strategic Deliberations
The conference commenced with an inaugural session chaired by DGAFMS, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on tri-service medical matters. The session was attended by a distinguished panel, including the Directors General of Medical Services (DGsMS) from all three branches, the Director General of Dental Services (DGDS), the Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (DCIDS Medical), Commandant AMC Centre & College, Commandant AFMC Pune, and other senior medical officials. The opening session focused on evaluating the current state of military healthcare, identifying challenges, and formulating strategic plans to enhance medical preparedness and capability development within the Armed Forces.
Strengthening Joint Medical Operations
One of the core themes of the conference was enhancing jointness among the three services to improve operational efficiency and medical readiness. Discussions revolved around integrated medical logistics, joint training programs, and uniform medical protocols to ensure seamless healthcare support during combat and peacetime. The importance of interoperability among the medical branches of the Army, Navy, and Air Force was emphasized, with a focus on optimizing resource utilization and standardizing treatment protocols across the services.
Research, Innovation, and Capability Development
Medical innovation and research remain key pillars in strengthening the Armed Forces Medical Services. The conference dedicated extensive discussions to advancements in battlefield medicine, trauma care, and new-age medical technologies that can significantly improve survival rates in combat scenarios. Experts presented research findings on regenerative medicine, telemedicine applications in remote operational areas, and AI-driven diagnostics, which have the potential to revolutionize military healthcare. Additionally, the integration of drone technology for rapid medical evacuation and the use of wearable health monitoring devices for real-time soldier health tracking were explored as futuristic solutions to enhance battlefield medical care.
Adopting Global Best Practices
Recognizing the evolving nature of modern warfare and the increasing complexity of military medical challenges, the conference placed special emphasis on studying and adapting global best practices in military healthcare. Case studies from leading military medical institutions worldwide were analyzed, and discussions focused on implementing evidence-based strategies to improve medical preparedness. The role of international military medical cooperation and collaborations with global defense healthcare institutions was also explored, fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening India’s defense medical capabilities.
Enhancing Healthcare Delivery and Medical Infrastructure
The conference also focused on upgrading healthcare delivery systems and modernizing military medical infrastructure. Proposals for developing new super-specialty military hospitals, upgrading existing medical facilities, and deploying mobile field hospitals for rapid medical response in conflict zones were discussed. The need for specialized training for military medics and enhanced disaster response capabilities was also highlighted, ensuring that the Armed Forces Medical Services remain prepared for any contingency, whether during war, peacetime operations, or humanitarian assistance missions.
Mental Health and Well-being of Armed Forces Personnel
Understanding the increasing stress and mental health challenges faced by military personnel, the conference dedicated a special session to psychological resilience and well-being. Mental health experts and senior military doctors discussed strategies to enhance mental wellness programs, stress management initiatives, and post-trauma rehabilitation measures. The importance of early psychological intervention, peer support systems, and robust counseling mechanisms was underscored to ensure the holistic well-being of soldiers and their families.
Women in Military Medicine: Breaking Barriers
A dedicated discussion was held on the growing role of women in military medicine, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the Armed Forces Medical Services. Senior women officers shared insights on leadership challenges, professional growth opportunities, and the need for gender-inclusive policies in military healthcare. The session also emphasized the importance of mentoring young female officers and fostering an environment that supports diversity and equal opportunities within the AFMS.
Formulating Future-Ready Policies
As military medicine continues to evolve, the conference served as a platform to formulate policies that will shape the future of AFMS. Senior leaders deliberated on strengthening preventive healthcare measures, optimizing medical resource allocation, and implementing technology-driven healthcare solutions. Emphasis was laid on continuous training programs, medical education advancements, and fostering a culture of research and development within military medical institutions.
Commitment to Excellence in Military Medicine
The 57th AMC Biennial Conference reaffirmed the Indian Armed Forces’ commitment to excellence in military healthcare. The collaborative efforts of tri-service medical leadership are driving the AFMS toward a future marked by innovation, integration, and service to the nation. By addressing critical medical challenges, adopting cutting-edge advancements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the AFMS is ensuring that military personnel receive world-class healthcare support, both on and off the battlefield.