60 Parachute Field Hospital to get Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024

New Delhi: In recognition of its exemplary work in the field of Disaster Management, the 60 Parachute Field Hospital, Uttar Pradesh, will receive the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024 in the Institutional category.

The award aims to honour individuals and organizations for their selfless service and invaluable contribution to disaster management. The announcement is made annually on 23rd January, commemorating the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

The 60 Parachute Field Hospital, Uttar Pradesh, has been a beacon of exceptional service, established in 1942 as the sole airborne medical establishment of the Indian Armed Forces. Recognized for its outstanding contributions in various global crises, the unit’s primary mission includes Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations during natural calamities, both nationally and internationally, in times of peace and war.

The institution played a pivotal role in extending medical assistance during significant events such as the Uttarakhand floods in 2013, the Nepal Earthquake under ‘Operation Maitri’ in 2015, and the Indonesian Tsunami as part of ‘Operation Samudra Maitri’ in 2018. Notably, in response to the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Turkey and Syria in February 2023, the unit showcased exceptional agility by rapidly assembling a 99-member team.

Setting up India’s pioneering level-2 medical facility in Turkey, the unit overcame resource constraints and language barriers to establish a 30-bed hospital in Hatay province’s school building. During the 12-day operation named ‘Operation Dost,’ the 60 Parachute Field Hospital provided a wide range of medical services, including rescue operations, triage, surgery, dental treatment, X-ray, and lab facilities. The unit demonstrated unwavering dedication by offering care to 3600 patients, exemplifying its commitment to service during times of adversity.

The award, carrying a cash prize of Rs. 51 lakh and a certificate, underscores the significant role played by the 60 Parachute Field Hospital in advancing disaster management practices and upholding the spirit of humanitarian service.