From Caregiver To Educator: Pune’s Army Artificial Limb Centre Transforms Into Prosthetics Training Hub
From Caregiver To Educator: Pune’s Army Artificial Limb Centre Transforms Into Prosthetics Training Hub
The Army Artificial Limb Centre (ALC) in Pune, established in 1944, is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditionally known for providing prosthetic care to military personnel and civilians, ALC Pune is expanding its role to become a leading academic institution in the field of prosthetics and orthotics. Spearheaded by military leadership such as Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), and Brigadier C.N. Satish, Commandant of ALC Pune, this shift addresses India’s growing need for skilled prosthetists amid rapid advancements in prosthetic technologies.
From Care to Education: ALC Pune’s Evolution
Initially, ALC Pune was founded to provide prosthetic limbs to soldiers injured in combat. Over time, its services expanded to civilians, becoming a leading provider of high-quality prosthetic devices in India. As prosthetic technologies advanced with new materials, biomechanics, and design techniques, ALC Pune recognized the need for professionals equipped with the technical skills to handle these innovations.
Brigadier Satish explains, “Our goal has always been to provide excellent care. As technology evolves, so must the professionals who design and fit these prosthetics. We are now expanding our role to include education, ensuring that the next generation of prosthetists is prepared for modern challenges.”
Addressing the Shortage of Prosthetists
India faces a severe shortage of trained prosthetists, a gap that has become more pronounced due to an increase in conditions like diabetes, vascular diseases, and trauma-related amputations. The DGAFMS has emphasized that this shortage is not limited to the military but affects civilians across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
By integrating educational programs into its operations, ALC Pune aims to fill this gap. The Centre is partnering with medical universities to develop degree and diploma courses in prosthetics and orthotics. These programs will combine classroom learning with hands-on experience, equipping students to design, fit, and maintain advanced prosthetic devices while understanding the biomechanics behind them.
Transitioning to Education
Historically, ALC Pune focused on prosthetics manufacturing. However, as technology in the field advanced, the need for specialized knowledge grew. Recognizing this, ALC Pune has shifted towards an educational model, offering academic programs alongside its prosthetic services.
Brigadier Satish notes, “Our mission is to prepare the next generation of prosthetists to handle the latest advancements in technology. By offering academic programs, we’re ensuring they’re equipped with the skills needed to improve patient care.” The curriculum includes training in biomechanics, patient care, and the design of advanced prosthetic devices, offering students the expertise to thrive in a rapidly evolving field.
Meeting the Demand for Skilled Professionals
This shift toward education is critical to addressing India’s workforce gap. By training more prosthetists, ALC Pune aims to meet the rising demand for prosthetic care both domestically and internationally. The initiative also fosters innovation, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of prosthetics technology.
While challenges such as funding and infrastructure development remain, ALC Pune is committed to overcoming them with the backing of the Armed Forces and strategic partnerships with academic institutions.
Looking Ahead
The success of ALC Pune’s educational programs could inspire other institutions across India to follow suit, creating a network of prosthetics education hubs. This initiative promises to improve prosthetic care, build a sustainable workforce, and foster innovation in India’s growing healthcare sector.
By integrating education into its prosthetic services, ALC Pune is ensuring that the future of prosthetics in India is both innovative and patient-centered.
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Regards,
Nikhil Deshmukh
PRO(Defence), Pune
