Minister Sakeena Itoo Inaugurates Four-Day Oral Health Awareness Programme at GDC Srinagar
Also Flags Off Dental Awareness Rally on Oral Hygiene
SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today inaugurated the four-day ‘Oral Health Awareness Programme – Bright Smiles, Happy Lives’ at the Government Dental College (GDC), Srinagar.
Organised by the Department of Public Health Dentistry, GDC Srinagar, the initiative aims to raise public awareness about oral hygiene, preventive dental care, and the broader impact of oral health on overall well-being.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Minister Sakeena emphasized that oral health is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in preventing systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and respiratory infections. “Oral health is not just about a bright smile; it is integral to the overall health of every citizen,” she said.
She further noted that regular oral hygiene practices and dental check-ups have become increasingly important, especially for the younger generation, and urged the public to make dental care an essential part of their routine.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister mentioned that dialysis facilities have been established at all SDHs, while advanced diagnostic services including MRI and CT scans are now available at various GMCs and hospitals to ensure high-quality medical care.
Minister Sakeena also called on GDC Srinagar to extend oral health awareness initiatives to rural and remote areas through outreach camps, ensuring people in these regions are educated about dental care and its link to overall well-being.
Commending the medical fraternity for their contributions, she said, “Being a doctor is not just about wearing a white coat and stethoscope, but about remaining committed to the welfare of the community, guided by the motto of ‘Equal Treatment for All’.”
In her welcome address, GDC Srinagar Principal, Dr. Sandeep Kour Bali, highlighted that the programme targets not only students and healthcare professionals but also the general public. She emphasized its goal of bridging the knowledge gap on oral diseases, their prevention, and treatment options, and provided an overview of the services and achievements of the Dental College.
On the sidelines, Minister Sakeena flagged off a Dental Awareness Rally, which will include interactive sessions, live demonstrations of correct brushing techniques, awareness workshops, and distribution of educational material on oral hygiene practices.
The Minister also inaugurated the Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit (MDRU) at the Central Library of GDC Srinagar.
