Military Nursing Service

The history of the Military Nursing Service (MNS) in India is a remarkable journey of dedication, compassion, and unwavering service to the nation. For over a century, these courageous nursing professionals have played an indispensable role in the Armed Forces Medical Services, extending care to soldiers, their families, and in numerous humanitarian missions.

Origins and Early Development

The roots of military nursing trace back to the late 19th century, emerging as one of the earliest organized forms of nursing in India. The foundation of modern professional nursing was laid after the Crimean War (1854–1856).

• 1888: Establishment of the Army Nursing Service
• 1896: Renamed as the Indian Army Nursing Service
• 1914: During World War I, 473 Indian nurses were appointed and served alongside Indian troops overseas, providing exceptional care on the battlefield

The permanent Military Nursing Service was formally established on 1 October 1926 with 55 nurses, marking a milestone in organized military healthcare.

Service During Wars and National Crises

Indian military nurses have consistently demonstrated valour, resilience, and patriotism during major wars and crises:

• World War II: Indian nurses served on war fronts with exemplary courage; many were taken as Prisoners of War and many sacrificed their lives for the country.
• 1943: A legislative ordinance formally constituted the Military Nursing Service (India) as part of the Armed Forces.

Post-Independence, MNS continued its legacy of service during:

• 1962 Sino-Indian War
• 1971 Indo-Pak War
• Kargil War (1999)

Their commitment was equally visible during humanitarian emergencies, including a major role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Professional Growth and Training

The MNS has evolved into a professional cadre of highly trained and skilled officers.

• 1950: Army Instruction 274/50 laid the terms for regular commission in MNS
• Cadre strength grew from 1,110 to over 5,368 officers over time

To ensure advanced clinical competence, officers undergo specialised training through:

• Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing
• M.Sc. Nursing
• Post Basic Diplomas in 13 clinical specialities

Recognizing the need for trained nurses, the Government of India initially trained nurses in selected civil hospitals. Later:

• 1950: Two Schools of Nursing were established in Pune and Delhi, later upgraded into Colleges of Nursing
• Currently, six Colleges of Nursing function in Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Lucknow

These institutions offer skill-based education at UG, PG, and specialised clinical levels.

Global Participation and Peace Missions

MNS officers have served beyond national borders, earning global appreciation for their professionalism and compassion. They have contributed to UN Peacekeeping Missions in:

• Congo
• Lebanon
• South Sudan

They also served in friendly foreign military hospitals, strengthening India’s global image.

Honours and Recognition

The extraordinary service of Military Nursing Service officers has been widely honoured with prestigious military and civilian awards such as:

• Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)
• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
• Sena Medal
• Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)
• Mention in Despatches

Civil recognitions include:

• Sarojini Khosla Nightingale Award
• Nalwa Medal
• Mahila Shiromani Award

Historic Milestone: Republic Day 2024

A historic moment was witnessed on 26 January 2024, when 144 officers of the Military Nursing Service proudly marched on Kartavya Path as part of the All-Women Contingent of the Armed Forces Medical Services—a powerful tribute to women’s empowerment in the Armed Forces.

Philatelic Tribute: 100 Glorious Years of MNS

To honour the century-long legacy of service, the Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp celebrating 100 Glorious Years of the Military Nursing Service in India. The stamp symbolises the compassion, dedication, and courage of military nurses who have selflessly served the nation.