In a vibrant display of athletic spirit, Sakeena Itoo, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, inaugurated the Annual Sports Meet-2025 at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar. The two-day event commenced today at the Boys Hostel playground in Bemina, drawing significant attendance from students and faculty alike.
During her address, Minister Itoo underscored the crucial link between physical and mental well-being of healthcare professionals and its direct impact on the quality of healthcare delivery to the community. She praised GMC Srinagar for organizing such a vital event, which promotes not only athleticism but also the mental fortitude of students and medical professionals. “Sports and recreational activities are essential for stress management,” she stated, adding that these activities help heal the demanding environment faced by those in medicine.
Highlighting the need for enhanced sports facilities, the minister urged the GMC administration to upgrade facilities at the Boys Hostel playground. She emphasized that maximum student participation in extracurricular activities is critical for fostering a healthy educational culture.
The Annual Sports Meet-2025 features a diverse range of sports and activities. Planned and organized under the guidance of Chairman Sports Committee Dr. Salim Iqbal, the events showcase everything from cricket, volleyball, and football to badminton, table tennis, and traditional games like carrom and tug of war. Track and field events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m sprints, relays, shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw, aim to identify the best athletes among the participants.
The sports meet also incorporates fun games such as the matka race, sack race, and spoon and egg race, fostering camaraderie and holistic well-being among medical professionals and students alike.
The event saw a strong turnout, attended by notable figures including Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Administrator Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Heads of Departments, Medical Superintendents, along with faculty members, students, and staff.
Minister Itoo’s commitment to promoting sports within educational institutions marks a significant step towards ensuring the welfare of those who dedicate their lives to public health. As the sports meet unfolds over the next two days, it stands as a celebration of athletic excellence and unity among the future healthcare leaders.