Lt. Col. Dr. Parag Prabhudesai who bridged the gap between clinical practice and military service
John Aguiar
It’s a fascinating look at the career path of a Goan dental professional Lt. Col. Dr. Parag Prabhudesai (Retd.) who bridged the gap between clinical practice and military service. Here is a structured summary of the key highlights from his journey:
Lt Col Dr Prabhudesai held a lifelong admiration for military uniform.His interest was solidified during his time at Goa Dental College, where he was inspired by a Commanding Officer from the Dental Corps who delivered guest lectures.
Being around staff members in Dental College with army backgrounds provided him with the necessary insight and encouragement to pursue a career in the forces.
Out of several applicants from his cohort, he was among those who successfully cleared the interview process to join the Army Dental Corps.
The "Soldier First" Philosophy: One of the most striking parts of his experience is the emphasis on military identity over professional specialization. Despite being a doctor, he underwent rigorous training to handle arms/ ammunition/ hand grenade including carbine and other small arms
*Military Training*
Training Phases: 06 Weeks: Intensive military/combat training.
4 Weeks: Professional dental and medical orientation within a military context.
*Postings* .
Served across all areas including border areas some of them were in High altitude regions. He has commanded various Dental Units. He has also served as Joint Director Planning ( Independent charge) at Army HQ.
*International Deputation :* Lt. Col. Prabhudesai served a four-year tenure with the Royal Armed Forces of Oman. He noted that while the professional dental standards remained consistent, the military philosophy and lifestyle in Oman offered a unique, different perspective compared to the Indian Army.
His career illustrates that being a military dentist is about more than healthcare; it requires the discipline of a combatant and the adaptability to lead independent charges in various global environments.
Lt. Col. Dr . Prabhudesai says that the Army is not just a job; it is a lifestyle that offers several unique benefits such as "Mini India" Perspective where you live and work with people from different states, experience various cultures, learn multiple languages and visit different regions of our country. It's the best way to experience and get to know our country.
Despite people coming from different states, the unit becomes a close-knit family.
The Army provides the support and platform to reach the highest levels as seen with Olympians like Neeraj Chopra and astronauts like Rakesh Sharma and Shubanshu Shukla who are all from Indian Armed Forces.
Training becomes a part of your DNA. The organization supports you even during personal setbacks or sickness even after your retirement.
*Role of Director Planning at Army HQ.*
As a Joint Director Planning, He was involved in the intake of Dental Officers.
As regards the selection process in the Army Dental Corps, it has evolved from university-based marking to a much more transparent and uniform system. The Selection is now streamlined through a uniform platform (NEET).
When applying for the NEET Exam, candidates must specifically tick the column/box expressing their desire to join the Indian Army as a Commissioned Officer. Without this, you won't be considered for the selection.
*Selection process*
The Interview is Conducted by high-ranking officials (including the Director General of Dental Services). It isn't just about being "professionally super"—it is about your bearing, personality, and whether you are a good "fit" for the forces.
Medical & Merit: Once the professional interview is cleared, candidates must pass a medical examination. Selection is then based on the final merit list.
Those joining as Post-Graduates (MDS) receive three years antedate for the next promotion.
Every officer, regardless of their background, undergoes basic military training to learn the "Army way" before starting their medical/dental duties.
*Role of Dental Officers in Elite Organisation.*
There is indeed a rare and prestigious opportunity to work with NSG and Para Commandos.
As a Dental Officer there is a unique opportunity to get involved in becoming a paratrooper and part of NSG commando as there is one post available in the above category throughout which is rotated periodically.
Advising the Dental Aspirants to join the Army Dental Corps, Lt. Col. Dr . Prabhudesai says, "Army is the only thing which can fulfill your dreams." If you want an organization that provides total support, builds your confidence, and offers a life that cannot be compared to any other service, it is not just a job but a very emotional commitment towards the country.
*Community Contributions* : Post-retirement, he has actively promoted ethical dental practices, educating the Goan Dental fraternity on compliance with regulations like infection control, Biomedical waste management, ARB certification, GSPCB Authorisation and Goa Clinical establishment Rules & Regulations.
He served as President of Indian Dental Association, Goa branch and leading initiatives on oral health awareness, including campaigns against oral cancer.
Prabhudesai Dental Clinic: As Chief Dental Surgeon at Panaji-based clinics (co-run with his wife Dr. Preeti Prabhudesai), it was the first two dental clinics in Goa to receive Registration under the Goa Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2021, setting a benchmark for compliance in the state.
He continues to practice at the clinic in Panaji and advocates for public health through the IDA/other Affiliated Associations program.
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