Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stones for Ophthalmology, Oncology, and Joint Replacement Centres at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) and new infrastructure at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt, on April 6, 2026, during the 262nd Army Medical Corps Raising Day celebrations.
The new facilities will enhance tertiary care capabilities in advanced eye care, cancer treatment, and complex joint replacement surgeries. The Base Hospital expansion includes 998 beds and 100 crisis beds to meet the routine and emergency needs of defence personnel, veterans, and dependents.
In his address, Shri Singh stressed innovation, capacity building, and integration of modern technologies to meet emerging challenges in military medicine. He praised AFMS for their service across India and neighbouring nations, calling their work a testament to India’s soft power.
He urged AFMS to focus on research, self-reliance in pharmaceuticals, and reforms in clinical trials. He emphasised developing predictive models for cardiovascular diseases, advancing cancer research, and strengthening neuro-research. He also highlighted the importance of balancing treatment with research and training.
Awards were presented to Command Hospital (Southern Command), Pune, as Best Hospital of AFMS, and INHS Asvini, Mumbai, as Second Best. Shri Singh also released a book titled Precision Protocols in Early Neurodevelopmental Intervention.
Senior defence officials, including CDS General Anil Chauhan and service chiefs, attended the event.
