A lifelong commitment to crisis care: Dimple Arora gets National Florence Nightingale Award from President
Her dedication to healthcare and crisis response was honoured with the prestigious 2025 National Florence Nightingale Award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday, recognising her 27 years of selfless service.
Born in Punjab's Firozpur, Arora's journey into nursing began after earning her general nursing and midwifery (GNM) diploma. She joined RML Hospital in 1998, but her contributions extended far beyond the hospital's walls, marked by her fearless response to some of India's most devastating disasters.
In 2004, she was deployed to Port Blair following the catastrophic Indian Ocean tsunami. With over 400 lives lost and 3,000 people missing in Campbell Bay and Car Nicobar, Arora provided critical medical aid amid chaos. She administered first aid under extreme conditions, supported psychological trauma care and worked tirelessly to stabilise the injured, offering not just medical assistance but hope to grieving families.
Her commitment didn't wane in 2010 when Leh-Ladakh faced a deadly cloudburst, triggering flash floods and mudslides. Amid the rugged terrain and harsh conditions, Arora managed emergency medical camps, treated injuries from debris and flooding, and coordinated with rescue teams to ensure timely care for the victims.
In 2008, after the Delhi bomb blasts, she was on special duty, managing emergency responses for the injured, ensuring swift triage, and supporting overburdened medical teams.
The following year, during the 2009 swine flu pandemic, she was stationed at the Delhi airport, screening travellers from affected regions while also providing critical care at RML Hospital. Her frontline service continued during Covid-19 pandemic, where she navigated the unprecedented health crisis with resilience and compassion.
Arora's passion for healthcare, however, extends beyond crisis response. Holding an MSc in psychology and pursuing an MBA in health management, she champions lifelong learning to adapt to evolving healthcare challenges.
Her leadership skills shine in both mentorship roles and providing counselling support for HIV-affected people.
Senior nursing officer Ligi Boban, who worked with Arora, praised her exceptional patient management and calmness under pressure. Mahima, another colleague, highlighted Arora's ability to maintain clarity and leadership during emergencies while remaining approachable and supportive.
As Arora approaches retirement, her unwavering spirit to serve remains strong. Her journey reflects the profound impact of compassionate, courageous care amid some of the darkest moments in recent history.
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