Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, inaugurated the two-day Annual Sports Meet-2025 at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar today. The event took place at the Boys Hostel playground in Bemina, assembled to enhance the physical and mental health of the medical community.
In her address, the Minister highlighted the crucial relationship between physical activity and mental health, pointing out how this synergy significantly influences the quality of healthcare delivery. She emphasized that organizing sports and recreational activities is vital for stress management, especially for students and professionals in rigorous medical fields.
Minister Itoo encouraged the GMC administration to upgrade facilities at the Boys Hostel playground to foster greater participation in extracurricular activities. She stated, “Incorporating sports into our daily routines significantly contributes to our well-being and enhances our efficiency at work.”
The Annual Sports Meet, planned and organized under the leadership of Chairman Sports Committee Dr. Salim Iqbal, features an array of sporting events. Participants can engage in competitive sports like cricket, volleyball, football, badminton, table tennis, and carrom. Traditional games such as tug of war and musical chair are also part of the program, along with track and field events including 100m, 200m, 400m, relay, shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw.
Moreover, fun games like matka race, sack race, and spoon and egg race will energize the event, creating a spirit of camaraderie among medical students and professionals. The inclusion of both serious competitions and playful activities aims to promote a holistic approach to health and well-being.
The inauguration witnessed a gathering of key figures including Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Administrator Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, and various Heads of Departments, as well as medical superintendents, faculty, students, and staff.
The two-day event not only promises to be a showcase of athletic talent but also serves to strengthen the bonds among the members of the healthcare community. By fostering such interactions outside of formal work settings, GMC Srinagar aims to improve the overall morale and reduce stress levels among its professionals.
With the 2025 Sports Meet, GMC Srinagar hopes to set a precedent for future sporting events, further solidifying the role of sports in healthcare settings and enhancing the welfare of those committed to patient care. As Minister Itoo concluded, “The health of our healthcare providers is directly linked to the health of our patients. Events like this remind us of the importance of taking care of ourselves as we care for others.”
