New Delhi, Sept 30: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday emphasized the need for preparedness against bio-threats and radiological contamination from nuclear weapons, addressing the Scientific Session on the 100th Raising Day of the Military Nursing Service (MNS) at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt.
Gen Chauhan highlighted that bio-threats—whether man-made, accidental, or natural—are likely to increase in the post-COVID era and called for specialized defence and medical protocols to handle infected persons.
Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on nuclear deterrence, the CDS noted that while the likelihood of nuclear weapon use in India is low, training against radiological contamination is essential for national security and contributes to deterrence.
He also lauded the MNS for a century of service, stating, “Military Nursing Service has completed 100 glorious years of selfless service to the nation… providing hope, comfort, and compassion in critical situations.” He emphasized the importance of nurses’ emotional and psychological well-being alongside their clinical duties.
Gen Chauhan further called for “jointness” among the armed forces, noting that MNS uniquely allows seamless transfer of nursing staff across army, navy, and air force establishments.
Established in 1926, the Military Nursing Service has grown into an indispensable part of India’s armed forces, serving in frontline conflicts, makeshift hospitals, ships, and humanitarian missions. (Agencies)
