Chennai: In an era where healthcare infrastructure is often judged by machines, technology and hospital capacity, one man spent more than four decades proving that compassion, timely response, and respect for every human life can transform public service more profoundly than large institutions alone.
Dr. P.R.M.M. Shanthakumar — the founder of Flyinng Squad Ambulance Service — built his life’s work on a simple belief: emergency response and final journey services must carry dignity equal to life itself.
Growing up as the eldest son in a large family, economic limitations pushed him into work at a young age. However, a moment early in his youth — where he transported a deceased person in his own vehicle due to the absence of proper services — forced him to question a gap that many never saw: why wasn’t there a dignified, respectful system in place for such situations in India?
That one simple question eventually became the seed for Flyinng Squad Ambulance Service in 1981.
Innovating Before India Spoke About Innovation
Years before terms like “paramedical protocol”, “ICU-on-wheels” or “emergency standards” became mainstream, Flyinng Squad brought structured response systems — movable stretchers, oxygen support, trained medical staff and eventually, fully functional mobile ICU ambulances.
In 1996, Shanthakumar introduced another idea that would alter funeral practices across India — the Dead Body Freezer Box.
The invention, later patented in 1999, gave families the ability to preserve their loved ones at home with dignity while rituals were arranged. He refused to commercialise it through royalties, allowing widespread adoption.
National Trust Earned Through Service, Not Promotion
Flyinng Squad eventually became India’s first ISO-certified private ambulance operator.
Over the decades, the service has been part of more than fifty thousand life-saving emergency responses and lakhs of transport cases across India.
The organisation served everyone without distinction — from ordinary citizens to national leaders including former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao — reflecting Shanthakumar’s core principle that every life holds the same value.
Awards and Recognition — Yet A Simple Philosophy
While national recognitions such as Social Doctorate honours and national integrity awards came naturally, Shanthakumar often states that his true recognition came from “a mother’s tear of relief when her child survives.”
Continuing The Journey at 40 Years and Beyond
Even today, Shanthakumar remains actively involved — advising staff, improving procedures and encouraging innovation. His personal journey — from a taxi driver supporting his family to a nationally respected humanitarian — reflects how individual conviction can reshape public service systems for a country.
His story stands as a reminder that service, when guided by values rather than business motives, leaves a legacy not measured in profit — but in lives touched, preserved and honoured with dignity.
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