Budgam, Aug 11 (JKNS): Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, today presided over the ICMR-SHINE Programme held at the Model Rural Health Research Unit (MRHRU), Khag, Budgam, in collaboration with ICMR-NICHR, New Delhi, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The two-day programme, held on August 11 and 12, brought together health officials, researchers, doctors, academicians and community members for detailed discussions on health awareness, community participation, evidence-based practices and strengthening healthcare services in rural areas.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the efforts of MRHRU Khag and its partner institutions for promoting health research and community-oriented healthcare initiatives.
He stressed the need to strengthen the link between health research and its implementation on the ground, emphasizing that evidence-based research should translate into tangible improvements in healthcare delivery and health outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted the importance of community participation in public health initiatives, observing that sustainable improvements in healthcare require coordinated efforts among health institutions, researchers, frontline health workers, district administration and the community.
An informative session was also delivered by Dr. Mohd Caser, Scientist-C (Medical) and In-charge, MRHRU Khag, ICMR-NICHR, New Delhi, who briefed the participants about the objectives of the ICMR-SHINE Programme and the role of research institutions in identifying and addressing local health challenges.
The programme was attended by CMO Budgam Dr. Gulzar Ahmad; HOD, SPM, GMC Srinagar, Dr. Mohd Iqbal Pandith; Tehsildar Khag; BMO Khag; Dr. Mariya Amin, Assistant Professor, GMC Srinagar; Dr. Inaamul Haq, Associate Professor, GMC Srinagar; Dr. Mohd Naser, State Coordinator, State Tobacco Cell Kashmir (DHSK); and Dr. Mohd Iqbal Khan, Assistant Professor, IUST Awantipora, besides senior district officers, doctors, academicians, healthcare workers and other officials.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner visited Primary Health Centre (PHC) Khag to review the healthcare facilities and services being provided to the local population.
During the visit, he inspected various wards and sections of the health centre and interacted with patients as well as medical and paramedical staff to assess the availability of services, patient care arrangements and overall functioning of the facility.
He directed the hospital administration and staff to ensure smooth, accessible and patient-friendly healthcare services, with particular emphasis on timely treatment, proper utilization of available resources and improved patient care. (JKNS)
