GMC Doda observes World Health Day 2026 with focus on community health

DODA, APRIL 07: Government Medical College (GMC) Doda observed World Health Day-2026 with great enthusiasm and academic fervour, focusing on this year’s theme, “Together for Health, Stand with Science.”

To mark the occasion, the Department of Community Medicine,  under the guidance from the GMC Principal Dr. Dev Raj Dogra and Head of the Department of Community Medicine Dr. Suresh K. Kotwal, organized a series of awareness and outreach programmes at GMC and its associated field practice areas, including Urban Health Training Centre (UHTC) Ghat, Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) Bhalla and Government Higher Secondary School Ghat, underscoring the importance of collective action and evidence-based approaches in improving public health outcomes. Dr. Walied K. Balwan, Assistant Professor coordinated the event.

These activities aimed to sensitize the community and healthcare workers about preventive healthcare practices and the importance of scientific evidence in addressing health challenges.

Senior Resident Dr. Imran Zaffer highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare, early diagnosis and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Demonstrator Dr. Waseem Ahmed delivered an informative session on medical misinformation and its adverse impact on public health.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Suresh K. Kotwal emphasized the significance of such academic and outreach initiatives in strengthening community awareness and shaping responsible future healthcare professionals.

The event witnessed active participation from faculty members, resident doctors, staff and students, reflecting a strong commitment towards public health awareness. Similar activities were also conducted at Government Nursing College Doda and Government Nursing College Kishtwar, further extending the outreach and impact of World Health Day celebrations in the region.

Meanwhile, World Health Day 2026 was observed at Community Health Centre Thathri under the guidance of Dr. Tanveer Ahmed Rather and the supervision of Dr. Shakeel Ahmed Kichloo.

The programme witnessed active participation from medical and paramedical staff of the Hospital.

On the occasion, awareness activities were convened to highlight the importance of preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyle and community participation in promoting overall well-being.

Health officials emphasized the significance of regular health check-ups, balanced diet, physical activity and maintaining hygiene for disease prevention.

Healthcare staff and participants pledged to work collectively towards strengthening health services and spreading awareness among the general public.