Defence Minister confers Raksha Mantri Trophy to best Command Hospitals

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded the Raksha Mantri Trophy to the top Command Hospitals of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) for the year 2019 on October 16, 2020. 

Air Force Command Hospital in Bengaluru was adjudged the Best Command Hospital for the year 2019, Command Hospital of the Eastern Command in Kolkata won the award for Second Best Command Hospital for the year 2019.

On the occasion, the Defence Minister complemented the two hospitals on their outstanding performances and acknowledged the commendable services being rendered by the Armed Forces Medical Services. The award ceremony saw in attendance Defence Secretary along with other senior service and civilian dignitaries.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded Raksha Mantri Trophy for Best & Second Best Command Hospitals of Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) for 2019.

Command Hospital (Air Force) Bengaluru & Command Hospital (Eastern Command) Kolkata judged as best & second-best, respectively. pic.twitter.com/cFfOEsfBtF

— ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2020

Armed Forces Medical Services

The Armed Forces Medical Services have been providing a range of services including combat medical support to the troops deployed in operational roles and the state of the art healthcare services at zonal, mid-zonal and tertiary care AFMS hospitals. 

While speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Anup Banerji, AFMS Director General emphasised on the preparedness of the AFMS to meet all challenges in providing medical support both during operations and in peace time as well. He also reiterated AFMS's resolute commitment to strive for professional excellence at all times.

What is Raksha Mantri Trophy?

The Raksha Mantri Trophy was set up in 1989. The award recognizes excellence in healthcare services provided by AFMS Command Hospitals and foster a spirit of healthy competition among them.  

Each year, a selection committee headed by an AFMS officer of Lt General rank or an equivalent one recommends hospitals for the award.

The recommendations are made through a comprehensive selection process, based on objective performance indicators assessed during on-site visits to the hospitals.