Lieutenant General (Mrs) Punita Arora of the Army Medical Corps made history as the first woman to attain the rank of Lieutenant General in the Indian Army. A distinguished alumna of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, she joined the Army Medical Corps in 1968. She went on to complete her post-graduation in Gynaecology and Obstetrics from AFMC, earning a Gold Medal for topping Pune University. Throughout her career, she served with distinction as a gynecologist at several premier Armed Forces hospitals, including as Professor and Head at AFMC and at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral).

Lt Gen Arora’s contributions to military medicine were both pioneering and impactful. She was awarded the Sena Medal by the President of India for establishing advanced gynecological endoscopy and oncology facilities in Armed Forces hospitals. Additionally, she received the Vishisht Seva Medal for her exemplary leadership in providing immediate and effective medical care to victims of the Kalu Chak terrorist attack while commanding Military Hospital, Jammu. Her remarkable service culminated in her appointment as the Commandant of AFMC, Pune, an acknowledgment of her leadership, expertise, and commitment to excellence in military healthcare.