DC New Delhi Correspondent
In a remarkable display of composure and clinical expertise, two Indian Army medical officers turned a potential mid-air crisis into a success story of swift life-saving intervention. On Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET334, cruising at nearly 30,000 feet, a passenger suddenly developed seizure-like symptoms, triggering an on-board medical emergency. With the aircraft far from any ground facility and only limited medical resources available, the situation demanded immediate, decisive action.
Lt Col Urmimala Bhattacharya and Lt Col Kirti Sethi, serving with the Indian Level 2+ Hospital under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), rose to the occasion without hesitation. The officers conducted a rapid assessment, identified suspected hypoglycaemia as the likely cause, and utilised aircraft’s emergency medical kit to stabilise the passenger. Their timely intervention prevented a possible coma, eliminated the need for flight diversion, and ensured the safety of everyone on board. Passengers from multiple nationalities expressed deep gratitude for the doctors’ professionalism.
This incident is far more than a routine medical success. It underscores the exceptional training, mental resilience, and commitment to service that define the Indian Army Medical Corps (AMC). Deployed in one of the world’s most challenging peacekeeping environments, these officers routinely provide critical care to UN personnel and local communities in South Sudan. That same high standard of readiness was evident at 30,000 feet, where civilian aviation rarely encounters such prepared first responders.
India has long been a cornerstone contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations, consistently deploying highly skilled medical contingents that serve as force multipliers for stability missions. Beyond their operational roles, these teams project India’s soft power through humanitarian action, reinforcing the nation’s image as a responsible global player committed to human lives irrespective of borders.
The actions of Lt Col Bhattacharya and Lt Col Sethi reflect the timeless ethos of the Indian Army, ‘Service Before Self.’ Such episodes not only save lives but also inspire the next generation of officers and enhance India’s reputation in international arenas. In an era where military capabilities extend well beyond combat, this event highlights how professional medical support has become a vital strategic asset in modern defence diplomacy.
As India continues to shoulder global responsibilities, stories like this remind us that our men and women in uniform remain steadfast guardians of humanity, even in the most unexpected theatres.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
