Shifa, Pakistan Army bring specialist healthcare to AJK’s doorstep

By M. Waqar Bhatti
June 02, 2025
Representational image of a free medical camp. — Facebook@Hafiz Abdul Hadi/File
Representational image of a free medical camp. — Facebook@Hafiz Abdul Hadi/File

Islamabad:In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity with the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Shifa International Hospital, in collaboration with the Pakistan Army and the AJK Health Department, organized a two-day free medical camp at DHQ Hospital, Hattian Bala, District Jhelum Valley, extending expert healthcare services to over 1,800 residents of the remote region.

The multidisciplinary medical team-comprising specialists in cardiology, pulmonology, general surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, dentistry, and emergency medicine-offered on-site consultations, along with free medicines for all attendees.

The initiative was particularly welcomed by women, children, and elderly patients, who described the access to high-quality care in their home valley as “a blessing during difficult times.”

Held amid ongoing security operations under Banyan-ul-Marsoos, the medical camp reflected a dual commitment: strengthening national security and uplifting underserved communities through humanitarian outreach.

“Our mission is not only to heal but to bring dignity and hope to every Pakistani, no matter how far they live,” said Dr. Abdus Salam Khan, Consultant Emergency Medicine, who led the medical team.

The initiative was carried out under the directive of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Khawaja Junaid Mustafa and aligns with the vision of Shifa International Hospital’s CEO, Dr. Zeeshan Bin Ishtiaque, to provide inclusive, accessible healthcare across Pakistan’s most marginalized regions.

As the Pakistan Army continues its developmental and strategic efforts in AJK, the collaboration with Shifa International Hospital underscores a shared commitment to national service, health equity, and human dignity.