Daijiworld Media Network - Delhi
Delhi, Sep 30: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday underscored the importance of preparing India’s armed forces for bio-threats and radiological contamination from nuclear weapons. Speaking at the Scientific Session on the 100th Raising Day of the Military Nursing Service (MNS) at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, he highlighted the emerging challenges in a post-COVID world.
“The world has been through a period of intense travels and tribulations during the COVID pandemic. Bio-threats, whether man-made, accidental, or natural, are likely to increase in the future. Defence against such threats and treatment of infected persons require different protocols. We must be prepared,” Gen Chauhan said.
He also echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for an undeterred stance on nuclear threats, stressing training against radiological contamination. “While the possibility of nuclear weapon use is low, it is prudent to factor this into our security calculus. Preparedness against nuclear threats contributes to deterrence,” he added.
Gen Chauhan lauded the MNS for its century-long dedication in diverse operational scenarios. “Military Nursing Service has completed 100 glorious years of selfless service. Whether on conflict frontlines, makeshift hospitals, aboard ships, or during humanitarian missions, your dedication has brought comfort to the wounded, solace to the distressed, and hope to the hopeless. Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare, giving more than just care—they offer hope, comfort, and compassion,” he said, stressing attention to the emotional and psychological well-being of caregivers.
Highlighting the importance of jointness, Gen Chauhan noted that MNS is the only service enabling seamless transfer of nursing staff across the army, navy, and air force, calling for broader integration among the three services.
Established in 1926, the Military Nursing Service has grown into a vital and indispensable component of the Indian Armed Forces, combining expertise, resilience, and compassion in service of the nation.