KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Nov 3: In a significant recognition of grassroots healthcare dedication, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar has extended his warm congratulations to the Safe Hands team on completing 25 years of exemplary service (2000–2025), commending the institution for emerging as a “Centre of Excellence” that blends professional competence with deep compassion.
The milestone coincides with the launch of a dedicated ambulette service christened “GOLDEN AGERS” (HEAL ON WHEEL), aimed at providing specialized medical transport for disabled and special-needs patients.
In a formal communication dated November 3, 2026, the Chief Secretary highlighted the remarkable journey of Safe Hands, noting that it has not only maintained high clinical standards but has also contributed meaningfully to strengthening health care delivery in the Kashmir Division.
“Safe Hands has emerged as a Centre of Excellence, combining professional competence with compassion, ethics, and a deep commitment to patient well-being,” the letter stated, underscoring the organization’s evolution from a specialized care provider to a holistic health partner in the region.
The highlight of the celebration was the inauguration of the Dedicated Ambulette Service, a specialized transport initiative designed to cater to the mobility needs of the elderly, disabled, and patients with special needs. The Chief Secretary expressed pleasure in launching the service, which he noted would provide crucial “last-mile” connectivity for medical care, ensuring that mobility challenges do not become a barrier to essential health services.
Expanding the Horizon: Technology and Community Outreach
While the formal letter focused on the 25-year milestone, Safe Hands has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to healthcare in Kashmir, integrating advanced technology and community welfare into its operations.
Recent initiatives reveal the institution’s broader impact beyond the hospital walls. In collaboration with the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Safe Hands Dental Centre has been at the forefront of integrating Artificial Intelligence into public health. The organization partnered with the SMC to conduct AI-Robot-based dental screening camps, specifically targeting frontline sanitation workers and municipal staff.
Furthermore, the institution has focused on capacity building, partnering with international entities like Marquette University (USA) and GSR Hospital (Hyderabad) to organize professional development programs for young dental professionals under the theme “Let’s Grow Together”. These efforts, led by key figures such as Dr. Tieka Rashid, Dr. Mumin Rashid, and Dr. Shahina Yasmin, have focused on special care dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, and the ethical challenges faced by emerging practitioners.
The recognition from the Chief Secretary’s office comes at a time when the administration is focusing on strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in the Union Territory. The “Golden Agers” service is expected to complement government efforts by providing a reliable, dignified transport option for vulnerable populations who often struggle with regular ambulances.
The 25-year milestone serves as a testament to the trust Safe Hands has built within the community, transitioning from a specialized clinic to a multi-faceted health delivery model that combines clinical excellence with social responsibility. As the organization enters its next chapter, the launch of the HEAL ON WHEEL service marks a renewed commitment to inclusivity and patient-centric care in the valley.
