CEO Pledges Shoulder-to-Shoulder Support to SKIMS
Srinagar, October 29, 2025:
Director SKIMS and EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, while speaking on the occasion of World Stroke Day organized by the Department of Neurology, SKIMS, emphasized that the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India is posing a serious threat to the nation’s economy. He stated that “nearly 80 percent of the country’s disease burden and mortality are linked to NCDs, underscoring the urgent need for investment in research, training, and preventive healthcare.”
Prof. Ashraf highlighted that beyond understanding the etiology and contributing factors, there is an immediate need to develop skilled manpower and strengthen institutional capacity to tackle the growing burden of lifestyle-related disorders.
He reiterated SKIMS’s commitment to public health, saying, “SKIMS is conscious of its pivotal role in addressing public health challenges and recognizes the importance of partnerships with institutions like J&K Bank, which has always been a steadfast supporter of SKIMS initiatives.”
Announcing a significant development, Prof. Ashraf said that with the endorsement of Shri Amitava Chatterjee, CEO & MD, J&K Bank, SKIMS will soon sign a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with J&K Bank. The collaboration will focus on patient-centric areas including the provision of ventilators, a life insurance scheme for employees, and a systematic online registration system connecting peripheral healthcare centers across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
He added, “Collaborations are the need of the hour. 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 on the occasion, underlined the importance of timely stroke management. “Every minute counts when it comes to stroke. Timely recognition and prompt treatment can save lives and livelihoods. As part of our social commitment, J&K Bank stands ready to support public-health initiatives that enhance awareness and emergency responsiveness,” he said, pledging “shoulder-to-shoulder support to SKIMS” and commending the institute for its dedicated efforts in stroke care and community education.
Dean Medical Faculty, SKIMS, Prof. G. M. Gulzar highlighted the importance of awareness programs conducted at SKIMS and their transformative impact on community health education. He said, “Educating the masses is critical amid the rising trend of preventable diseases. Dissemination of accurate information by concerned experts plays a key role in reducing disease burden. SKIMS continues to play a leading role in patient awareness, prevention, and management.”
Prof. Rouf Asmi, Head of the Department of Neurology, SKIMS, said the event aimed to raise public awareness about stroke prevention and timely management, noting that stroke remains a major public health challenge, yet it is both preventable and treatable. He thanked the SKIMS administration and the organizing committee for facilitating such impactful programs that go beyond awareness to inspire collective action for better health outcomes.
