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Paras Health Srinagar, Islamia College Join Hands to Equip Students with Life-Saving Skills, Promote Drug-Free Society

Srinagar, August 10: In a significant initiative aimed at equipping young people with life-saving skills and strengthening awareness against substance abuse, Paras Health Srinagar, in collaboration with Islamia College of Science & Commerce, Srinagar, NSS Unit 3 and CWASC, organised a Basic Life Support (BLS) Training and Drug De-Addiction Awareness Session on Monday under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.

The session brought together healthcare professionals and students to promote awareness about emergency response, the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of building a healthy, responsible and drug-free society.

The Basic Life Support training was conducted by Dr. Sarmad Andrabi, Senior Resident, Critical Care, Paras Health Srinagar, who sensitised students to the importance of responding promptly and appropriately during medical emergencies. The training focused on essential life-saving measures and encouraged participants to develop the confidence and preparedness needed to act in critical situations.

Dr. Andrabi emphasised that timely intervention during an emergency can play a crucial role in saving a life, making awareness and basic emergency-response skills important not only for healthcare professionals but for the wider community.

The session also addressed the growing need for awareness, counselling and preventive efforts against substance abuse. Ms. Madeeha Mukhtar, Clinical Psychologist, Paras Health Srinagar, conducted the Drug De-Addiction Awareness and Counselling session, engaging students in a discussion on the harmful physical, psychological and social consequences of drug abuse.

Ms. Mukhtar highlighted the importance of early awareness, open communication and timely counselling in preventing substance dependence. She also encouraged students to seek appropriate support and help individuals struggling with addiction rather than allowing stigma to become a barrier to recovery.

The programme included an interactive discussion with students, providing them an opportunity to raise questions and share their perspectives on substance abuse, mental well-being, emergency preparedness and their role in creating a healthier society.

The initiative underscored the importance of taking health awareness beyond hospital settings and engaging young people directly through educational institutions.

The organisers said such initiatives can help create a generation that is not only better prepared to respond to medical emergencies but is also aware of the devastating consequences of substance abuse.

The collaboration reaffirmed the shared commitment of Paras Health Srinagar and the college towards community health, student empowerment and social responsibility, with the larger objective of contributing to a drug-free, healthier and more responsible society.

Ahmedabad patient chooses Paras Health Srinagar for complex heart procedure, discharged within 24 hours

Srinagar, Aug 4: In yet another milestone highlighting the growing trust in advanced cardiac care available in Kashmir, Paras Health Srinagar successfully performed a complex coronary intervention on a patient who travelled all the way from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for treatment.

The patient, diagnosed with complex multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD), underwent an advanced complex coronary intervention under the supervision of Dr. Mohd Maqbool Sohil, Director – Interventional Cardiology, PARAS Health Srinagar, and was discharged in a stable condition within just 24 hours of the procedure.

The case underscores the growing reputation of Paras Health Srinagar as a centre of excellence for advanced cardiac interventions, attracting patients from across the country for specialized treatment.

Sharing details of the case, Dr Sohil, said the patient presented with complex multivessel coronary artery disease requiring meticulous planning and advanced interventional expertise.

"Managing complex multivessel coronary artery disease demands precision, experience and a patient-centric approach. Every case is unique, and our priority is to provide the safest and most effective treatment using advanced interventional techniques. We are delighted that the procedure was successful and that the patient recovered remarkably well, allowing discharge within 24 hours. It is encouraging to see patients travelling from different parts of the country to seek advanced cardiac care in Kashmir, reflecting the trust they have in our clinical expertise and infrastructure," Dr. Sohil said.

Expressing gratitude to the medical team, the patient shared an emotional message following the successful treatment.

"I just wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and support you've provided. Thank you for always being so kind, patient and genuinely helpful. Your dedication to your patients goes far beyond treatment, and your personal care and guidance have made a real difference. You are not only an outstanding cardiologist but also a wonderful human being. Your expertise, compassion and willingness to help are truly inspiring. Thank you once again for everything you've done. Wishing you continued success and good health. We are truly grateful to have a doctor like you," the patient said.

Dr. Murtuza Habib, Associate Vice President and Facility Director, Paras Health Srinagar, congratulated the cardiology team for the successful intervention and said the achievement reflects the hospital's commitment to delivering world-class healthcare with compassion.

"This case reflects the exceptional capabilities of our clinical teams and our unwavering commitment to patient-centric care. At Paras Health Srinagar, we have invested significantly in advanced technology, skilled specialists and robust clinical protocols to ensure that patients receive the highest standards of treatment close to home. The fact that patients are now travelling from distant states like Gujarat to seek treatment at our hospital is a testimony to the confidence people have in our doctors and healthcare services. We remain committed to strengthening super-speciality healthcare in the region while ensuring compassionate, accessible and quality medical care for every patient," Dr. Habib said.

Paras Health Srinagar has emerged as one of the leading multi-speciality healthcare institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, offering comprehensive tertiary and quaternary care services across cardiology, cardiac sciences, gastroenterology, oncology, neurosciences, orthopaedics, nephrology, critical care and several other super-speciality disciplines. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of experienced specialists, the hospital continues to provide advanced, minimally invasive treatment options, reducing hospital stay, improving recovery outcomes and enhancing the overall patient experience.

The successful management of this complex cardiac case further reinforces Paras Health Srinagar's growing reputation as a trusted referral centre for advanced cardiac interventions, serving patients not only from Jammu and Kashmir but also from across the country.

Education Minister Sakina Ittoo advocates robust public-private partnership to build future-ready education ecosystem in J&K

Addresses Cambridge International Education & Foundation World School, trainers, educators.

Srinagar, Aug 4: Minister for Health, Medical Education, School Education and Social Welfare, Sakina Ittoo on Tuesday called for stronger collaboration between the government and private educational institutions to transform the education landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that such partnerships are crucial for preparing students to meet the demands of an increasingly dynamic and competitive world.

Addressing a gathering of trainers, educators and academic leaders during an interaction organised by Cambridge International Education and Foundation World School here in Srinagar, the Minister said that quality education can only be achieved through collective efforts involving the government, private institutions, teachers, parents and the wider community. She was accompanied by MLA Hazratbal, Salman Ali Sagar.

Highlighting the growing contribution of reputed private institutions, Sakina Ittoo said organisations such as Foundation World School have been playing a significant role in complementing the government's initiatives to improve learning outcomes, promote academic excellence and nurture young talent across the region.

"The future belongs to those who possess the right knowledge, practical skills and the mindset to adapt to change. Our education system must empower students not only to excel academically but also to become responsible, innovative and compassionate citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to society," she said.

The Minister described teachers as the true "builders of the nation," stating that their influence extends far beyond textbooks and classrooms. She said educators play a defining role in shaping the character, values and aspirations of future generations and urged them to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, creativity and ethical leadership among students.

Expressing concern over the alarming rise in drug addiction among youth, Sakina Ittoo said educational institutions must emerge as the first line of defence against substance abuse. She stressed that schools and colleges should actively create awareness, strengthen counselling mechanisms and promote healthy lifestyles that encourage students to channel their energy towards constructive pursuits.

"Drug addiction has become one of the most serious social challenges confronting our society. Educational institutions have a vital responsibility in safeguarding our young generation by promoting awareness, resilience and positive engagement," she said.

The Minister also laid special emphasis on skill development and vocational education, saying the education system should move beyond conventional career choices and expose students to emerging opportunities in sectors such as horticulture, agriculture, hospitality, tourism and other allied industries.

She said Jammu and Kashmir possesses immense potential in these sectors and students should be encouraged to acquire industry-relevant skills that would enable them to become entrepreneurs, innovators and job creators while contributing to the region's economic growth.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to educational reforms, Sakina Ittoo said the administration remains focused on creating an inclusive, innovative and resilient education ecosystem capable of addressing the evolving aspirations of students and the needs of the modern economy.

She expressed confidence that meaningful collaboration between the government, educators and private institutions would significantly strengthen the quality of education across Jammu and Kashmir and prepare young learners for leadership roles in an interconnected global society.

Meanwhile, representatives of Cambridge International Education and Foundation World School reiterated their commitment to supporting the Union Territory's educational transformation by providing globally benchmarked learning frameworks that nurture both academic excellence and holistic development.

They said Jammu and Kashmir stands at an important stage in strengthening its education ecosystem and creating greater opportunities for its young learners. "There is a significant opportunity to equip students with the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world," they said.

The management highlighted that the Cambridge Pathway, spanning Early Years, Primary, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary and Advanced stages, provides a coherent international framework designed to develop future-ready competencies, including curiosity, communication, creativity, collaboration and resilience.

They added that the programme combines rigorous curricula with practical teaching and learning resources, continuous professional development for educators and comprehensive assessment practices that monitor learner progress at every stage.

"By delivering a broad and balanced education that develops confident, responsible, reflective, innovative and engaged learners, schools in Jammu & Kashmir can prepare young people not only for success in higher education and their careers but also to make meaningful contributions to their communities and an increasingly interconnected world," the management said.

Paras Health Srinagar performs advanced endoscopic procedure for complex pancreatic condition, crosses 600 EUS milestone

Srinagar, July 31: Paras Health Srinagar has successfully performed a highly advanced Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage of a massive 19×12 cm walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON) using the state-of-the-art HOT-AXIOS stent, marking another milestone in the hospital's growing expertise in advanced therapeutic gastroenterology.

The patient had developed the large necrotic pancreatic collection following an episode of severe pancreatitis. Traditionally, such cases are managed through surgery or image-guided percutaneous drainage at many healthcare centres. However, the Paras Health Gastroenterology team successfully treated the condition through a completely endoscopic, minimally invasive approach under minimal sedation, avoiding the need for open surgery.

Dr. Aadil Ashraf, Associate Director, Gastroenterology, Paras Health Srinagar, said the procedure highlights the growing availability of world-class endoscopic interventions in Kashmir.

"The patient had developed a large walled-off pancreatic necrosis measuring 19×12 cm following pancreatitis. Using Endoscopic Ultrasound guidance, we successfully drained the collection with a HOT-AXIOS stent through a completely endoscopic approach under minimal sedation. Such collections are still managed surgically or through percutaneous drainage at many centres, but advanced therapeutic endoscopy offers a safer, minimally invasive alternative with faster recovery and less discomfort for patients," Dr. Ashraf said.

He said the Gastroenterology unit at Paras Health has been performing advanced EUS-guided therapeutic procedures on a regular basis, reducing the need for invasive surgeries in many complex pancreatic and biliary disorders.

Dr. Ashraf also announced another major milestone achieved by the department, stating that the unit has now performed more than 600 Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) procedures, one of the highest volumes in the region.

"Crossing the 600 EUS mark reflects the trust patients have placed in us and the expertise our team has built over the years. We are also the largest procurer of Boston Scientific EUS hardware in the Jammu and Kashmir region, which underscores both the volume and complexity of advanced endoscopic procedures being carried out at our centre," he said.

The achievement further strengthens Paras Health Srinagar's position as a regional referral centre for advanced gastroenterology, offering cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments for complex gastrointestinal and pancreatic diseases while reducing hospital stay, postoperative complications and recovery time.

Appreciating the accomplishment, Dr. Murtuza Habib, Associate Vice President and Facility Director, Paras Health Srinagar, congratulated the team of specialists for achieving the milestone. He reaffirmed the hospital's commitment to delivering quality, accessible, and advanced healthcare services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider region through the adoption of cutting-edge medical technologies and expertise.

Lieutenant Governor Attends Rotary Club of Kashmir’s Installation Ceremony
SRINAGAR, JULY 22: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, attended the Rotary Club of Kashmir’s installation ceremony today. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the new President and team and best wishes to the outgoing President. The Lieutenant Governor said that for over 100 years, Rotary has put humanity first through dedicated, selfless service and today it stands as a global force for human welfare, driving positive change across our country through thousands of active clubs.
“Since 2019, as Jammu Kashmir advances with unified momentum, we have also seen the Rotary Club’s spirit of service in action, notably through their selfless medical initiatives across North, South Kashmir and Jammu Division. I want to tell the incoming President and executive team that they are entrusted with a vital torch, and carrying it forward with tangible impact is a profound duty placed upon their shoulders,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted three specific areas which require Rotary Club's attention.
“I appeal to the Rotary Club of Kashmir not to limit itself to scholarships or book distribution alone, but to create a professional guidance chain, a network that connects young talents living in remote areas with experienced professionals. I want the Rotary Club of Kashmir to provide opportunities in digital education and skill development that prepare young people for a changing world," the Lieutenant Governor said.
He observed that second important area is environment protection and urged the members of Rotary Club of Kashmir to act as guardians of nature.
“We can no longer confine ourselves to tree-planting drives. We must develop an environmental protection model based on scientific methods, long-term planning and the participation of local communities, which will inspire future generations. I want the Rotary Club of Kashmir to involve youth in this campaign and to partner with educational and research institutions. I wish to see the Rotary Club of Kashmir remembered for conserving rivers and lakes and for restoring forests to life,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said the third and most important area concerns the campaign for a drug-free Jammu Kashmir. He highlighted the achievements of 100-day drug-free J&K campaign and called upon Rotary Club of Kashmir to become an active and full partner in this public campaign, because this is a fight for the future of coming generations.
“The Rotary Club possesses medical expertise and enjoys public trust. It can launch de-addiction camps, awareness drives in colleges and universities, and livelihood and skill-development programs for youth. I know Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” is a pledge to a better public life, and contributions in these three areas will bring real change. Your work over the past two decades has proved that Rotarians in Kashmir are dedicated to selfless service. Now, as this responsibility passes into new hands, I entrust to you the task of working for a prosperous, peaceful and drug-free Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Rtn. Anil Kumar Singhal, District Governor; Rtn. Dr Touseef Bhatt, President, Rotary Club Kashmir; Rtn. Jagjit Singh, Outgoing President; Rtn. Adil Shah, Secretary; other office bearers of the Rotary Club Kashmir, Rotarians were present.
Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Kashmir; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Shri Javid Ahmad Tenga, President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and prominent citizens from different walks of life also attended the installation ceremony.