RAJOURI: Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, in collaboration with the National Health Mission (NHM), Jammu & Kashmir, organized a One-Day Professional Development Programme (PDP) for medical staff at the Lecture Hall, Mehra Campus. The initiative was aimed at healthcare professionals from the Pir Panjal region, covering Rajouri and Poonch districts, with a focus on enhancing skills, knowledge, and preparedness to strengthen healthcare delivery in this geographically challenging and disaster-prone area.
The programme, part of the Health and Medical Education Department’s initiatives, underscores the commitment of GMC Rajouri and NHM J&K to continuous professional development and bolstering primary healthcare services.
Mission Director, NHM J&K, Baseer Ul Haq Chaudhary, graced the event as Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted the importance of professional capacity building for improving healthcare outcomes and appreciated the dedication of medical professionals serving under difficult conditions in the Pir Panjal region. He also emphasized the role of the Ayushman Bharat – Health & Wellness Centre (HWC) initiative in integrating services for non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, adolescent health, mental health, palliative care, and emergency services. Chaudhary stressed that the focus is not only on treatment but also on keeping communities healthier, empowered, and better prepared for health crises.
Speaking on the role of medical colleges, he noted, “GMCs, including GMC Rajouri, are not just centers for medical education but also hubs for specialized care, capacity building for frontline workers, research-driven solutions, and training programs.”
Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence Kakryal, praised the JK SEHAT App as a transformative tool making healthcare accessible, transparent, and patient-friendly, especially in mountainous and border areas. “The SEHAT App ensures healthcare reaches people, rather than people reaching healthcare,” he stated.
The programme covered critical topics for effective healthcare delivery, including:
- JK SEHAT App – Health coverage and accessibility
- Disaster Management and experience sharing
- Role of Indian Army in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
- Implementation of Comprehensive Primary Health Care under NHM
- Orientation on NHM programs in J&K
- Violence against healthcare professionals and preventive measures
Principal GMC Rajouri, Prof. (Dr.) A.S. Bhatia, highlighted the importance of regular professional development in equipping medical staff to address the region’s unique healthcare challenges, including natural calamities.
The sessions offered valuable insights into NHM’s functioning and emphasized strengthening grassroots-level healthcare delivery.
Other dignitaries present included Dr. Chander Sheikhar, HoD Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GMC Rajouri; Col. Ashok Kumar, Col Med HQ 25 Infantry Division; Dr. Harjeet Rai, State Nodal Officer, NHM J&K; Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, Divisional Nodal Officer, NHM Kashmir; Dr. Jitender Mehta, Programme Manager, NHM J&K; Dr. Shamim Ahmed, Medical Superintendent, Associated Hospital GMC Rajouri; and medical students.
