Pune — The Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, commemorated the 62nd anniversary of its ‘Graduate Wing’, a prestigious milestone since its inauguration on August 4, 1962, by then Defence Minister Shri V.K. Krishna Menon. Over the past six decades, AFMC has produced more than 7,600 distinguished doctors who have excelled as academicians, clinicians, scientists, and administrators both within the Armed Forces and in various public and private sector organizations globally.
In recognition of its outstanding contributions to the Armed Forces and the nation, AFMC was honored with the President’s Colour by Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the Hon’ble President of India, on December 1, 2023. Additionally, the college received a Unit Citation from General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, on March 18, 2024.
The anniversary celebrations, led by Lt Gen Sandeep Thareja, Director and Commandant, included a wreath-laying ceremony at ‘Prerna Sthal’ to honor the brave hearts, joined by Brig Mukhtar Alam (Retd), the first alumnus of the college, Maj Gen Giriraj Singh, Dean & Dy Comdt, and other dignitaries.
The two-day event featured debates, quiz competitions, and spirited sports matches between alumni and medical cadets, highlighting their camaraderie and competitive spirit. The 59th edition of the college magazine ‘Dhanvantari’ was released in the presence of Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd.), Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, MUHS, Nashik, an esteemed alumna of AFMC. Several veteran and serving alumni attended, sharing fond memories of their undergraduate days.
The alumni of AFMC, with a vast national and global presence, mirrored the celebrations in their respective locations, honoring their alma mater. Lt Gen Daljit Singh, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), and Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, GOC-in-C Southern Command, extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the alumni, faculty, and cadets for their remarkable achievements and contributions.
Apart from training accomplished medical professionals, AFMC has also conducted numerous outreach health and awareness programs in remote rural areas, furthering its commitment to public service and healthcare excellence.