By Meer Iqbal
Srinagar: Director SKIMS and EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, has warned that the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India poses a grave threat to the nation’s economy. Speaking at an event marking World Stroke Day, organized by the Department of Neurology, SKIMS, Prof. Ganie said that “nearly 80 percent of India’s disease burden and mortality are linked to NCDs,” underscoring the urgent need for investment in research, training, and preventive healthcare.
Prof. Ganie emphasized the necessity of developing skilled manpower and strengthening institutional capacity to confront the growing challenge of lifestyle-related disorders. He reiterated SKIMS’s commitment to public health, noting that the institute recognizes the value of partnerships with organizations like J&K Bank, which has been a consistent supporter of SKIMS initiatives.
Announcing a key development, Prof. Ganie revealed that SKIMS will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with J&K Bank, with the endorsement of Shri Amitava Chatterjee, CEO & MD, J&K Bank. The collaboration will focus on patient-centric initiatives such as the provision of ventilators, a life insurance scheme for employees, and an online registration system linking peripheral healthcare centers across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
> Collaborations are the need of the hour, Prof. Ganie said. “SKIMS, as a leading institution, has immense potential to partner with major organizations to drive mutual growth and benefit the wider community
Shri Amitava Chatterjee, CEO & MD, J&K Bank, who was the Chief Guest at the event, highlighted the importance of timely stroke management. “Every minute counts when it comes to stroke. Timely recognition and prompt treatment can save lives and livelihoods,” he said. Reaffirming the bank’s social commitment, he pledged “shoulder-to-shoulder support to SKIMS” and lauded the institute for its dedicated role in stroke care and community awareness.
Prof. G. M. Gulzar, Dean, Medical Faculty SKIMS, underlined the importance of health awareness programs and their impact on community health education. “Educating the masses is critical amid the rise of preventable diseases. Accurate information disseminated by experts plays a vital role in reducing disease burden,” he noted.
Head of the Department of Neurology, Prof. Rouf Asmi, said the event aimed to raise awareness about stroke prevention and timely management. He noted that while stroke remains a major public health challenge, it is both preventable and treatable. He thanked the SKIMS administration and organizing committee for facilitating such impactful programs that inspire collective action for better health outcomes.
