Sports vital to lower stress among health professionals, says minister

Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, inaugurated the two-day annual sports meet-2025 of Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the minister underscored the crucial link between the physical and mental well-being of healthcare professionals and its impact on the overall quality of healthcare delivery.

“Our doctors and medical students are the backbone of healthcare system. Their physical fitness and emotional balance directly influence the care they provide. Initiatives like these help rejuvenate their spirit and foster teamwork and positivity,” Sakeena stated.

Commending GMC Srinagar for organising the event, the minister highlighted that sports and recreational activities are essential components of stress management, especially for those in demanding medical professions. She underlined that sports play a vital role in decreasing the mental stress that medical students face during their rigorous academic schedule.

The minister also asked the GMC Srinagar administration to upgrade facilities at the playground of the boys hostel so that maximum students are attracted towards extracurricular activities.

Principal GMC Srinagar, Dr Iffat Hassan, expressed gratitude to the minister for constant support. She said that sports improve confidence, balance, focus and appreciated the efforts of the organising committee.

Earlier, the minister interacted with participants, faculty and medical students. Chairman, Sports Committee, GMC Srinagar, Dr Salim Iqbal, played a key role in planning and organising the event.