On March 14, 2025, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, inaugurated the two-day Annual Sports Meet-2025 at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar. The event took place at the Boys Hostel playground in Bemina, attracting significant attention from students and faculty.
During her address, Minister Itoo underscored the vital connection between physical health and mental well-being among healthcare professionals. She emphasized that these aspects significantly influence the overall quality of healthcare delivery. The Minister commended the efforts of GMC Srinagar in organizing this engaging event and highlighted that sports and recreational activities are crucial for stress management within the intensive medical field.
“It is imperative that we promote a culture of sports and leisure,” said Itoo, urging the GMC administration to upgrade facilities at the Boys Hostel playground. By investing in better infrastructure, they can encourage maximum student participation in various extracurricular activities.
The Annual Sports Meet, organized with the guidance of Chairman of the Sports Committee, Dr. Salim Iqbal, boasts a diverse range of sporting events. Participants can engage in competitive sports such as cricket, volleyball, football, badminton, and table tennis, alongside traditional games like carrom and tug of war.
Track and field events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m sprints, and relay races, allow students to showcase their athleticism. Strength-based competitions like the shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw further emphasize the athletic spirit of the meet. Fun games such as the matka race, sack race, and spoon and egg race added a festive atmosphere, fostering camaraderie among students and faculty.
The event garnered extensive participation, with attendees including Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Administrator Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Heads of Departments, Medical Superintendents, faculty members, and enthusiastic students. Such gatherings not only promote physical fitness but also strengthen the bonds of teamwork and collaboration among future healthcare professionals.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader commitment to enhancing the mental and physical health standards of medical students, paving the way for healthier societies. The culmination of the event is set for later today, where winners will receive awards and recognition for their achievements in various sporting categories.
