JAMMU, Sep 25: The Jammu Kashmir Government Pharmacists Association (JKGPA), Jammu Province, celebrated World Pharmacist Day at the Press Club Jammu under the presidentship of Bharat Bhushan Bhagat, President, JKGPA.
The programme was organised to commemorate the contribution of pharmacists to the healthcare sector and to pay tribute to Prof. Mahadeva Lal Schroff, regarded as a pioneer of pharmacy education in India.
Dr. Poonam Sethi, Director Health Services, Jammu, was the Chief Guest, while Dr. Harbaksh Singh, Deputy Director Health Services (HQ), Jammu, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The programme commenced with Ganesh Vandana followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Sushil Sudan, Chairman, JKMEF and Member, Pharmacy Council of India, highlighted the life and contributions of Prof. Mahadeva Lal Schroff. He said Schroff played an important role in promoting and strengthening pharmacy education in India and abroad.
Sudan also highlighted the significance of amendments to the Pharmacy Act, 1948, and their implications for pharmacists in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the developments had brought relief to a large number of pharmacists who, according to him, had faced uncertainty following the constitutional changes concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
On the occasion, retired pharmacists who had rendered their services to the Health Department were felicitated in recognition of their contribution. They were presented certificates and mementos as a mark of appreciation for their years of service.
The speakers also highlighted the significance of World Pharmacist Day, which is observed annually to create awareness about the role of pharmacists in healthcare, safe use of medicines and public health. The theme highlighted during the programme was “Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures.”
The programme also witnessed addresses and participation by Bahadur Singh, District Vice President, Jammu; Madan Sharma; Dheeraj Sharma; Shafket Hussain; Jaswinder Singh; Narotum Manhas; Surjeet Rajan; Ram Lal Verma; Suresh Chouhan; Sanjay Choudhary; R.P. Singh; Gagan Singh; Rakesh Bakshi; and Pawan Kumar, besides pharmacists from different districts.
The participants reiterated the importance of strengthening the role of pharmacists in the healthcare delivery system and promoting greater public awareness regarding the safe and effective use of medicines.
The event concluded with appreciation for pharmacists who have contributed to public healthcare services and a renewed commitment towards strengthening the profession and its contribution to community health.