Pune, September 1, 2026: Surgeon Vice Admiral Manish Honwad, VSM has assumed charge as the Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune.
He assumed the appointment on the morning of September 1, marking the beginning of a new tenure at one of India’s premier institutions for military medical education and training.
Extensive Academic and Professional Background
Surgeon Vice Admiral Manish Honwad is an alumnus of AFMC, having completed his MBBS from the institution in 1989.
He subsequently pursued an MD in Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, also from AFMC, completing the programme in 1998.
His academic credentials also include a WHO Fellowship in Neuro-Anaesthesiology from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru.
The Flag Officer is also an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi, where he was awarded an M.Phil in Public Administration.
Over 37 Years of Service
Surgeon Vice Admiral Honwad brings more than 37 years of experience across academic, clinical and administrative roles.
During his distinguished career, he has held several senior appointments in the Armed Forces Medical Services.
His previous assignments include Additional Director General Medical Services (Navy) at Naval Headquarters, as well as Commanding Officer of INHS Sanjivani and INHS Asvini.
These appointments have provided him with extensive experience in military healthcare administration, clinical services and medical education.
Expertise in Healthcare Simulation
Surgeon Vice Admiral Honwad is also a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSIH), USA.
He has served as an international speaker on healthcare simulation at various national and international conferences.
His expertise in healthcare simulation adds another dimension to his academic and professional experience, particularly in the areas of medical training and education.
Honoured with Vishisht Seva Medal
In recognition of his dedication to patient care and service, Surgeon Vice Admiral Manish Honwad was conferred the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2025.
He has also received several commendations during his career, including Chief of Naval Staff Commendations and commendations from the Flag Officers Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern and Western Naval Commands.
His awards and professional record reflect his contribution to the Armed Forces Medical Services.
New Role at Armed Forces Medical College
As Director and Commandant of AFMC, Surgeon Vice Admiral Honwad will lead an institution that plays an important role in the education and training of medical professionals for the Armed Forces.
His experience spanning clinical care, medical administration, education and healthcare simulation is expected to support the institution’s continuing academic and professional objectives.
The appointment also brings him back to AFMC, the institution from which he graduated as a medical student and later completed his postgraduate specialisation.
Armed Forces Medical Services Extend Best Wishes
The Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) conveyed best wishes to Surgeon Vice Admiral Manish Honwad on behalf of all ranks of the Armed Forces Medical Services.
The Armed Forces Medical Services expressed confidence in his successful tenure as Director and Commandant of AFMC Pune.
Conclusion
The appointment of Surgeon Vice Admiral Manish Honwad, VSM as Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, marks an important leadership transition at the institution.
With more than three decades of service and experience across clinical, academic and administrative responsibilities, he brings a broad professional background to the role.
His association with AFMC as both an alumnus and now its Director and Commandant adds particular significance to the appointment.
