Kashmir govt bats for ISM on Ajmal Khan Day

The widespread drift to traditional medication has made the Kashmiri government decide favorably on the development of Department of Indian System of Medicines (ISM). Mr. Sham Lal Sharma, the Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture also said that the government has set apart Rs. 16 crore with the aim of nurturing medicinal plants essential for the conventional mode of treatment. He made the announcement today while speaking at a function organized by ISM doctors in Kashmir University as part of observing Hakim Ajmal Khan Day. 

The government also plans to set up two Ayurvedic/Unani Medical Colleges, one at Jammu and the other at Kashmir within a couple of years. He also said that Medicinal Plants Board, together with Forest, Horticulture and Floriculture departments would effectively mobilize the different sources of medicinal plant development by identifying potential cultivation pockets. He assured all possible help in ensuring the proper execution of the board’s mission.

The Minister also requested the doctors not to neglect their service and promised prompt action from the part of the government in redressing their grievances. Exhorting the doctors to serve in the interest of suffering people, he paid tributes to Hakim Ajmal Khan, the legendary hero who not only took care of the ailing lot but also strived for the country’s independence. Concluding his speech, Sharma asked the doctors to work with sincerity and missionary zeal without which the observance of the day itself is futile.

Director of ISM, Dr. Abdul Kabir Dar assured that the doctors from their part would strive hard to restore the credibility of the ISM department.