Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. SRINAGAR: The Indian Dental Association (IDA) Kashmir Central Branch held a significant interaction with Dr. L. Swasticharan, Deputy Director General / Director of Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) and National Head of the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India on Wednesday.
The meeting was led by noted dental academician Prof. Dr. H.U. Malik, along with Dr. Syed Ishtiyaq Geelani, President of IDA Kashmir Central Branch, and Dr. Adil Malik, Secretary of the Branch.
During the interaction, the delegation highlighted the growing unemployment crisis among dental surgeons in Jammu and Kashmir and called for their inclusion under the National Health Mission (NHM), a model that has been successfully adopted in several other states.
Dr. Swasticharan gave a patient hearing and assured that the matter would be looked into with a positive outlook. He emphasized the importance of integrating dental professionals within the public health framework, particularly to bridge the oral healthcare gap in underserved regions.
On the occasion, Dr. Humaira, Editor of IDA Kashmir Central Branch, submitted a comprehensive memorandum titled “Strengthening Oral Health Services in Jammu & Kashmir”, which also included a detailed proposal for the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence in Dentistry in Kashmir. The proposed centre aims to advance clinical training, research, and specialized dental care in the region.
The delegation also urged the Ministry to establish dedicated dental units at the primary healthcare level across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure affordable and accessible oral health services, especially in rural and remote areas.
Both sides underscored the need for robust policy support, improved data collection, and collaborative efforts between central and regional health authorities to uplift the dental healthcare infrastructure in the Union Territory.
The interaction concluded with a shared commitment to pursue long-term strategies aimed at improving the oral health landscape and professional opportunities for dental surgeons in Jammu and Kashmir.