Srinagar, April 1: Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, Director Health Services Kashmir, has officially assumed the additional charge of Director, Jammu & Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS). On taking over, Dr. Bakshi visited the headquarters of JKACS and interacted with the officers and staff to gain firsthand insights into the functioning of the department.
During his visit, Dr. Bakshi was briefed on the key initiatives undertaken by JKACS in the fight against HIV/AIDS, including prevention programs, awareness campaigns, and treatment facilities across the Union Territory. He commended the staff for their dedication and emphasized the critical role of the society in preventing the spread of HIV, ensuring timely treatment for affected individuals, and eradicating stigma associated with the disease.
In his address to the staff, Dr. Bakshi reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and the importance of ensuring that the AIDS control programs align with national and global health strategies. He emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach involving healthcare institutions, NGOs, and community stakeholders to enhance awareness and accessibility of services.
Further, Dr. Bakshi reviewed the existing infrastructure and ongoing projects, including the establishment of Integrated Counseling and Testing Centres (ICTCs), Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. He urged the department to focus on data-driven strategies, ensuring that resources are optimally utilized to maximize outreach and impact.
