Opinion | World Health Day and India, with Special Mention of Kashmir

On World Health Day, India highlights its healthcare progress, while Kashmir reflects growing transformation, improved access, and collective efforts by government, communities, and the Army toward a healthier future

Every year on April 7, the world comes together to celebrate World Health Day, an initiative led by the World Health Organization to mark the founding anniversary of the World Health Organization. This day is not merely symbolic; it is a powerful reminder of the importance of health as a fundamental human right and a call to action for governments, communities, and individuals alike. Civil society, activists, and scientists amplify their voices for the promotion of good health.

As of now, the whole world is dealing with issues that have a direct and long-lasting impact on people’s health, such as global warming, excessive use of plastics, pollution, and ozone depletion. Junk and adulterated food further add to these concerns. The list goes on. To tackle this, world leaders and scientists have come together to form governing bodies, rule-based frameworks, and alternatives.

As countries across the world have faced health issues and worked to eliminate health crises, my country, India, has not been an exception. In a country like India, it becomes challenging to ensure that health facilities reach every corner of the nation; yet, India has made strides in delivering healthcare to every part of the country. Over the past few decades, India has made notable progress in improving public health. Campaigns against diseases like polio, tuberculosis, and malaria have seen measurable success. The nationwide push for vaccination, sanitation under programs like Swachh Bharat, and digital health initiatives have all contributed to a healthier society. Schemes like Ayushman Bharat have been transformative, aiming to provide health insurance coverage to millions of underprivileged families. Telemedicine services have also expanded healthcare access, especially in remote areas where doctors are scarce.

If we talk about India’s contribution to global healthcare, it is something to be proud of. India has contributed significantly in terms of vaccines, medicines, equipment, machines, and other amenities, helping enhance healthcare and improve people’s lives worldwide. India has major biotech companies like Bharat Biotech and the Serum Institute of India that have contributed to the world. In recent times, Indian-origin COVID vaccines were supplied to many countries, helping them immunize their populations and tackle the pandemic. Indian doctors are second to none; they are known for their intelligence and efficiency. They work across the world and occupy top positions, which speaks volumes about their valuable contribution to their institutions. India exports medicines, drugs, vaccines, and much more to the world.

I once met a Kashmiri who was working in a hospital in Gurugram. During our conversation, he mentioned the large influx of patients from the Middle East, Africa, and even from the USA and the West. Upon inquiring further, he explained that this is because India provides high-quality medical facilities that are also cost-effective. I still remember, just a few years back, when a Pakistani teenage girl, Afsheen Gul, was brought to India for a life-saving surgery. Despite tensions between the two countries, this gesture was both touching and reflective of India’s healthcare capabilities. Having said all this, it is important to mention the government’s emphasis on a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, yoga, and nutritious food. All these factors combined highlight the contribution, infrastructure, and affordability of India’s healthcare system.

Shifting focus to our valley now, Kashmir is currently in a transitional phase. Changes in governance, administrative improvements, recovery from past turmoil, and the return to normal day-to-day life are evident. New AIIMS institutions, Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), increased seat allocations, and improvements in healthcare at the grassroots level, along with various government schemes, are contributing to this transformation.

However, one contributor that often remains unrecognized is the Indian Army. The Indian Army has played a significant role in providing medical facilities to the people of Kashmir. It conducts free medical camps, offers free check-ups, distributes medicines, and provides access to Army hospitals. I still remember that my friend’s brother’s hand was badly burned, and he received treatment at a local Army hospital. My aunt, who resides near an Army camp, often narrates how locals benefit from the hospital there. I have also heard instances where the Army has donated blood during emergencies. The outbreak of COVID-19 posed unprecedented challenges worldwide, and Kashmir was no exception. During this period, the Indian Army significantly stepped up its efforts. Army hospitals extended their services to civilians, quarantine facilities were established, and awareness campaigns were conducted to educate people about safety protocols. The Army also assisted in vaccination drives and ensured the availability of essential medical supplies in remote areas. “The Army’s contribution to healthcare in Kashmir continues to this day, and on World Health Day, it further stepped up its efforts by collaborating with local bodies and health associations to raise awareness and support doctors in organizing medical drives and health check-ups.

This does not mean there are no challenges. Several issues still need to be overcome, such as overburdened staff, infrastructural disparities, shortages of doctors and nurses, and instances of mismanagement. However, with proper implementation and effective supervision, these challenges can be tackled.At the local level, there is often a lack of respect for public property, with issues like littering, reckless behaviour, damage to infrastructure, and increasing pollution. The government, local communities, and healthcare staff must come together to overcome these challenges, cooperate effectively, and raise awareness about keeping hospital premises clean and litter-free. Doctors should educate citizens about healthy lifestyles, while the government must focus on promoting sustainable development and take concrete steps to reduce pollution.

ALIZAROON@112GMAIL.COM