As a prelude to the nation-wide celebration scheduled on February 11, the Directorate of AYUSH J&K today organised a grand event in Bandipora to mark World Unani Day–2026 under the theme “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice.” The event was among a series of programmes being held across four districts of J&K UT.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, presided over the programme and underscored the significant role played by AYUSH during the pandemic, acknowledging the relentless services rendered by the department and urging continued recognition of their dedication.
She highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among AYUSH, Forest Department, and JKRLM to promote biodiversity initiatives and harness the potential of medicinal plants for community welfare. The Deputy Commissioner also inspected the stalls showcasing medicinal plants, NCD screening, and yoga demonstrations, and appreciated the Department’s efforts in promoting preventive healthcare.
On the occasion, informative booklets focusing on preventive healthcare and healthy living were released, including Guidelines on the National Program for Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis & other Musculoskeletal Disorders (Under National AYUSH Mission) and Principles of Healthy Living–A Preventive & Promotive Health Booklet Based on Unani Framework.
The programme paid tribute to Hakeem Ajmal Khan Sahib (1868–1927)—eminent Unani physician, social reformer, freedom fighter and pioneer of scientific research in Unani medicine, whose birth anniversary is commemorated annually as World Unani Day.
During the event, a detailed presentation was delivered outlining the departmental vision and activities, including IEC campaigns, yoga sessions in schools and colleges, outreach camps, awareness programmes at schools and ICDS centres, conservation seminars, training of medical officers, NCD screening initiatives, and drug abuse prevention efforts.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the Department’s commitment to strengthening evidence-based Unani practices and expanding preventive healthcare services across the district.