Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): For the first time, Kash Foundation, Mumbai organized a free medical and awareness camp for Kashmiri Khan workers at the premises of Jama Masjid, Lower Bazaar, Shimla. The initiative focused on laborers engaged in heavy load carrying work, who often remain deprived of basic healthcare facilities.
The camp primarily aimed to directly engage with the worker community, understand their health concerns, and provide essential medical consultation. Many of these workers suffer from muscle strain, knee pain, spinal issues, heart-related ailments, and joint disorders, but are unable to seek timely treatment due to financial constraints.
The initiative is part of the ongoing efforts led by Kash Foundation founder-trustee Dr. Avkash Jadhav. During his Associate Fellowship at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla, from April 5 to April 21, 2026, he conducted a survey of over 100 Kashmiri Khan workers in the city. The findings were later presented at a national seminar held on April 24, 2026, highlighting the socio-economic and health challenges faced by the community.
The medical camp was chaired by Dr. Narendra Mahajan, DCH, MD, retired Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla. As a resource person, Dr. Mohammad Shahnawaz Hasan from IGMC educated participants on health awareness, government schemes such as Ayushman Bharat and Himcare Card, regular health check-ups, nutrition, and physiotherapy exercises.
Over 30 Kashmiri Khan workers participated in the camp. Dr. Hasan emphasized that regular health screening, proper nutrition, early detection of diseases, and utilization of government health schemes can significantly improve their well-being.
Dr. Avkash Jadhav also highlighted the ongoing health and social initiatives of Kash Foundation in Maharashtra and other regions. Dr. Narendra Mahajan assured free consultation, medicines, and medical guidance at his charity clinic near Kali Bari Temple, Mall Road, Shimla, along with support for free investigations at IGMC.
The success of the camp was made possible through the efforts of experts and volunteers. Expressing gratitude, worker Mushtaq said the camp gave voice to their struggles for the first time and offered hope for a better life.
