Kargil, September 14, 2025: The Cancer Society Kargil Ladakh was formally launched today at the Syed Mehdi Auditorium Hall, Kargil, during a Cancer Awareness Programme organised by Baqriya Healthcare & Research Centre (BHC&RC).
The launch ceremony was attended by ADC Kargil Imteeaz Kacho, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Liaqat Ali Khan, District Social Welfare Officer Sameena Khatoon, other District Officers, Senior Doctors, Chairman IKMT Sheikh Sadiq Rajayee, representative of Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat Haji Nabi, President BHC&RC Dr. Ahmed Ali, Chairman Cancer Society Kargil Ladakh Dr. Wilayat Ali, Onco Surgeon Dr. Azhar Jan Butoo, Medical Oncologist Dr. Saqib Banday, along with members of the Cancer Society, medical practitioners besides a large number of school students.
Addressing the gathering, ADC Kargil Imteeaz Kacho said the launch of the Cancer Society is a noble idea and initiative led by BHC&RC marking a historic moment for the district. He added that this day onwards, the fight against cancer has formally begun in Kargil. Further, he noted that cancer management and treatment is a highly complex process, often leading to severe physical and psychological exhaustion. He assured that the Administration’s support will always remain with the Cancer Society in its future endeavours.
While giving an overview of the health sector in Kargil, the ADC said health institutions across the district are doing commendable work against all odds despite limited infrastructure and harsh topography.
CMO Kargil Dr. Liaqat Ali Khan appreciated Baqriya’s efforts and said this initiative marks a major leap for healthcare in the district. He stressed that the best way to prevent cancer is by improving lifestyle and dietary habits, which have been severely disrupted over the last two decades.
The event included the formal launch of the Cancer Society Kargil Ladakh and the oath ceremony of its executive members.
Dr. Oliyat Ali delivered the welcome address, while Chairman and Senior Consultant Dr. Wilayat Ali briefed the audience on the reasons behind forming the Cancer Society. He said its primary aim is to spread awareness so that cancer can be detected early, to conduct medical camps with the support of cancer specialists, and to carry out research and documentation related to the disease in Kargil.
During the programme, Head and Neck Onco Surgeon Dr. Azhar Jan Butoo gave a detailed presentation on various types of cancers, followed by Medical Oncologist Dr. Saqib Zafar Banday, who shared insights on cancer at the global, national, and state levels.
Veteran Pharmacist and senior citizen Haji Nabi also shared his views and applauded the initiative.
President BHC&RC Dr. Ahmed Ali presented the vote of thanks and highlighted Baqriya’s services in the healthcare sector over the past two decades.
The event’s proceedings were conducted by Dr. Nasreen Fatima and Dr. Aliya Gul.
