Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Felicitates Graduates, Reiterates Government’s Commitment to Strengthen SKIMS Institutions
Srinagar, July 15: Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Medical College & Hospital, Bemina, celebrated its Annual Day with great enthusiasm and pride today. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Jenab Omar Abdullah, who attended as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated graduating students on embarking upon a noble and demanding professional journey. “I hold deep respect for the medical fraternity. The journey to becoming a doctor is arduous and calls for dedication and constant learning,” he said. While expressing confidence in the capabilities of the new graduates, he also urged them to remain cautious of emerging challenges, particularly those posed by artificial intelligence in medicine.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for further strengthening SKIMS and SKIMS Medical College. Applauding the institution’s contribution to healthcare and medical education in the region, he called upon young professionals to serve the people of Jammu & Kashmir with humility and empathy.
Guest of Honour, Ms. Sakina Itoo, Hon’ble Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, also lauded the efforts of the faculty, students, and administration. She invoked the legacy of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, noting that SKIMS stands as a monumental contribution to the people of J&K. She reiterated the government’s resolve to expand healthcare delivery and enhance infrastructure across the UT.
Syed Abid Rasheed Shah (IAS), Secretary, Health & Medical Education, in his address, emphasized the importance of empathy and integrity in the medical profession. He advised the graduating students to balance their professional commitments with self-care, particularly mental well-being.
Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, highlighted the historic decision by former CM Jenab Farooq Abdullah to merge JVC with SKIMS – a move that laid the foundation of what is now a flourishing medical college.
Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and appreciated their continued support. He underscored the achievements of SKIMS and SKIMS MC and expressed optimism about sustained government backing for the institution’s ongoing initiatives.
Principal SKIMS Medical College, Prof. Fazal Q. Parray, in his welcome address, spotlighted recent institutional milestones, including the college’s first successful corneal transplant performed by the Department of Ophthalmology. He acknowledged the clinical advancements made by other departments like Orthopaedics and Dermatology in enhancing patient care.
The event witnessed participation from former Directors, senior faculty, staff, students, and members from other healthcare institutions across the Union Territory.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Registrar Academics, Prof. Dr. Aijaz A. Rather, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister and all dignitaries for their presence and encouragement. He commended the co-organising chairman & MS SKIMS MC Dr. Shifa Deva & organizing committee for their support . He highly appreciated faculty, and staff for their dedication and efforts in nurturing future healthcare leaders.
Issued Through: Public Relations Office, SKIMS
