LEH, Oct 18: The Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Jammu, strengthened its efforts to improve healthcare access among tribal communities in Ladakh through institutional engagements and a community-level healthcare survey conducted by its Tribal Health Care Research Programme (THCRP) team.
Under the guidance of Dr. Harbans Singh, Head of RARI Jammu, the team visited Leh to review ongoing programme activities, explore institutional collaboration and assess the healthcare needs of local communities, particularly those living in remote and high-altitude areas.
During the visit, the team met Dr. Tashi Thinlas, Director of Health Services, Ladakh, to discuss the ongoing activities of THCRP and explore opportunities for coordination with the Health Department. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between institutions to address the healthcare challenges faced by tribal populations. Dr. Tashi Thinlas was also presented with an appreciation certificate in recognition of his support and contribution to the programme.
The team subsequently met Padma Shri Dr. Padma Gurmet, Director of the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa, Leh. He was felicitated in recognition of his prestigious Padma Shri honour. Discussions focused on ongoing THCRP activities, opportunities for collaborative research and the promotion of traditional systems of medicine to address the healthcare needs of tribal communities.
As part of its field activities, the THCRP team also conducted a Healthcare-Seeking Behaviour Survey to understand healthcare utilisation patterns, treatment preferences and barriers to accessing medical services.
The survey aims to generate insights into the healthcare needs of communities, particularly those residing in geographically challenging areas. Its findings are expected to support the planning of accessible, culturally appropriate and community-oriented healthcare interventions.
The engagements reflect RARI Jammu’s continued efforts to strengthen institutional partnerships, advance tribal healthcare research and promote evidence-based interventions. Through coordinated activities and systematic community assessments, the institute seeks to improve healthcare awareness, accessibility and service delivery among tribal populations in Ladakh.
The programme forms part of RARI Jammu’s ongoing efforts under THCRP to strengthen community-focused healthcare research and outreach, with particular attention to the challenges posed by Ladakh’s difficult geographical conditions.