Handwara, Jun 3 (KNS): In a major step to expand quality dental care in underserved areas of north Kashmir, a Satellite Dental Centre was established at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara on Tuesday through a collaboration between the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, and the Department of Dentistry, GMC Handwara.
The initiative was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Prof. (Dr.) Sandeep Kaur Bali, Principal/Dean of Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, and Prof. (Dr.) Khursheed Ahmad Wani, Principal of GMC Handwara, officials said.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Bali said the move underscores the commitment of Government Dental College Srinagar to extend quality oral healthcare services to remote regions. "Institutional collaborations like this are key to improving public health outcomes," she said.
Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Wani welcomed the initiative, stating that the partnership would significantly strengthen dental healthcare facilities for the people of Handwara and adjoining areas while promoting academic excellence and professional development.
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Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, Head of the Department of Public Health Dentistry, said the centre reflects a community-oriented approach and will facilitate preventive, promotive, and curative dental services. He also highlighted the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in addressing oral health challenges.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Muneeb, Head of Dentistry at GMC Handwara, Prof. (Dr.) Rafi Ahmad Togoo, Dr. Shazana Qazi, Dr. Tasneem Sakinatul Ain, Dr. Ajaz (Medical Superintendent, GMC Handwara), Dr. Owais Gowhar, and other faculty members from both institutions.
Officials said the newly established centre would also serve as a platform for community outreach programmes, training, and research activities, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the regional population. (KNS)