Srinagar, April 11: To commemorate the World Health Day, the 319 Field Hospital, in collaboration with the 46 Rashtriya Rifles under the aegis of Chinar Corps, Friday organised a comprehensive Oral Health Awareness and Management Programme from April 7 to April 9. The initiative aimed to promote oral hygiene awareness and provide essential dental services to the local population.
A statement issued here said that the programme commenced at Gen Bipin Rawat Stadium, Baramulla, where the first day was dedicated to serving veterans. “Attendees received detailed dental check-ups and were provided with dental care kits comprising toothbrushes, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss. The camp witnessed an encouraging turnout, with over 100 veterans benefitting from specialised dental services. Many expressed heartfelt gratitude for the outreach and support,” the statement said. “On the second day, the focus shifted to the general public. More than 300 individuals availed themselves of dental treatments, including temporary and permanent restorations, scaling, and extractions. Trained para-dental staff also conducted health education sessions for schoolchildren, emphasising the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.”
The event concluded with the formal release of a unique handbook titled “Basic Dentistry in the Field” by the General Officer Commanding, 19 Infantry Division, at Thimayya Hall. Specifically designed for paramedical and non-dental personnel, the handbook offers practical guidance on managing routine dental issues in field conditions—enabling frontline healthcare workers to provide effective care in the absence of dental specialists. The initiative was widely appreciated for its focus on community welfare and for bridging the gap in access to specialised dental care in remote areas.