Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, inaugurated the Annual Sports Meet-2025 at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on January 20, 2025. The event took place at the Boys Hostel playground in Bemina and aims to promote physical health among medical professionals.
During her address, Minister Itoo highlighted the vital connection between physical fitness and mental well-being for healthcare professionals. She stated, “Sports and recreational activities are essential for managing stress, especially in demanding medical fields.” Her remarks underscored the importance of such programs, advocating for the enhancement of facilities to encourage student participation in extracurricular activities.
Minister Itoo urged the GMC administration to upgrade the Boys Hostel playground, facilitating a better environment for sports. “Upgrading facilities will ensure maximum engagement from students in these valuable activities,” she said.
The two-day sports meet features a range of events planned under the guidance of Chairman Sports Committee Dr. Salim Iqbal. Participants can look forward to competitive sports such as cricket, volleyball, football, badminton, table tennis, carrom, tug of war, along with traditional track and field events including 100m, 200m, 400m, relay, shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw.
In addition to the competitive focus, fun games like matka race, sack race, and spoon and egg race aim to foster camaraderie among participants. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also encourage a sense of community and holistic well-being among students and healthcare professionals.
The Annual Sports Meet attracted a considerable audience, including prominent figures such as Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Administrator Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, heads of departments, medical superintendents, faculty members, students, and staff. Their participation highlights the college’s commitment to creating a well-rounded educational environment.
Sakeena Itoo’s initiative to launch such sports events reflects her dedication to improving the quality of healthcare delivery in Jammu and Kashmir. Through sports, she believes healthcare workers can maintain a balanced lifestyle, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes.
