SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today virtually addressed the 10th National Ayurveda Day celebrations organised by Directorate of Ayush, J&K at Convention Centre, Jammu.

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar; Secretary Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah; Director Ayush, J&K, Dr. Suresh Kumar Sharma; Director Health Services, Jammu, Director Family Welfare J&K, MD JKMSCL, former Directors of Ayush, Healthcare professionals and other officers also attended the event, either in person or through video conferencing.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister underlined the significance of Ayurveda as one of the oldest and most effective systems of holistic healthcare. “Ayurveda embodies India’s cultural wisdom, offering a lifestyle and healthcare model deeply connected to nature. The theme ‘Ayurveda for People and Planet’ reminds us that the health of individuals and the health of the environment are inseparable. It is our responsibility to preserve this knowledge and make it accessible to every household.”, Minister Sakeena said.

The Minister called upon all the participants to carry out a dedicated awareness campaign on the benefits of Ayurveda so that people take due benefits from it. “These celebrations will be fruitful only when the message of benefits of Ayurveda reach to common masses in every district, in every panchayat and every area of Jammu and Kashmir”, the Minister said.

The Health Minister further said that there is not much awareness about Ayurvedic medicines, highlighting that people should be made aware that Ayurvedic medicines have less side affect as compared to general medicines.

Minister Sakeena also highlighted various initiatives of the government in health sector, adding that the Omar Abdullah led government is determined to take advanced medical care facilities to far flung and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir. She called upon all the participants that every effort should be made so that the people can take due advantage of these initiatives which is the main purpose of this government.

She further lauded the Directorate of Ayush, J&K for its continuous efforts in expanding Ayush healthcare services, promoting awareness, and bringing traditional systems closer to the youth through education and outreach. She stressed on further public outreach programs, capacity building and extension of facilities in each nook and corner of J&K, so that Ayush becomes a household name.

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar in his address lauded the role of Ayush in life style disorders. He stressed on the need to focus on strength areas of Ayush like Non Communicable diseases.

Secretary Health, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed in his virtual address, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, said that Ayurveda is a science of life that goes beyond curative medicine by addressing prevention, lifestyle management, and wellness and its integrative approach is essential in combating the modern epidemic of lifestyle disorders. He stressed on Research and Development, Scientific Validation, Standardization and mass public awareness so that Ayush becomes the most acceptable system all over the globe.

In his key note address, Director Ayush, Dr. Suresh Kumar Sharma highlighted the growing importance of Ayurveda in today’s healthcare landscape. He said, “Ayurveda not only aims to cure diseases but also to maintain harmony within the body and with nature. The theme for this year reflects the need for sustainable health practices that benefit both people and the planet. The Directorate of Ayush, J&K is committed to providing quality Ayush healthcare services across the Union Territory and to integrate Ayurveda-based preventive and promotive health measures into the mainstream”.

He also elaborated on the achievements of the department, including the operationalization of Ayush Health & Wellness Centres, promotion of herbal awareness campaigns, and expanding access to traditional healthcare in rural and urban areas alike.

The mega event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of nearly 700 medical professionals, paramedical staff, students, and members of the general public. The celebration was enriched with cultural programmes reflecting India’s Ayurvedic heritage, as well as inspiring lectures by renowned Ayurvedic physicians on subjects like immunity building, lifestyle disorders, mental wellness, and the ecological significance of Ayurveda.

On the sidelines of the function, 15 thematic stalls were installed, showcasing Ayurvedic methodologies, Panchakarma therapies, Unani regimental therapies, medicinal plants, and yoga asanas. These stalls attracted large crowds and provided hands-on knowledge and demonstrations, creating awareness among the participants about the practical applications of Ayush systems in daily life.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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