NEW DELHI: In a gesture of solidarity and service to the nation, a high-level national team of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh in the national capital today and offered voluntary emergency services with the Association's readiness to provide 24x7 medical support, if required, across the country in the light of recent developments.

The delegation, comprising senior national office bearers of the IMA, including National President Elect Dr. Anil Kumar Nayak and Honorary National Secretary General Dr. (Ms) Savita Datta, conveyed to the Minister that the Association has already instructed its network of hospitals and doctors nationwide to be on emergency standby. They reiterated their commitment to setting up dedicated emergency response cells wherever needed, especially in areas affected by ongoing armed operations.

The meeting, held in the backdrop of recent incidents in Jammu & Kashmir brought to focus the pressing need for enhanced protection of medical personnel and facilities in conflict zones. The Minister acknowledged their concerns and appreciated the IMA's proactive stance and sense of national duty.

During the interaction, Dr. Jitendra Singh advised the IMA leadership to place special emphasis on Jammu and Kashmir, given the sensitive security situation and recent incidents in the region. He noted that the medical fraternity's active presence and preparedness in J&K could play a vital role in supporting both civilian and paramilitary needs during emergencies. The Minister encouraged the Association to coordinate closely with local authorities and consider strengthening their on-ground response infrastructure in the Union Territory.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, himself a noted Physician and Diabetologist, assured the delegation that the Government is fully committed to safeguarding healthcare professionals and ensuring that medical infrastructure remains operational and protected, even under challenging circumstances. He lauded the IMA's offer to remain available for round-the-clock service as a testament to the nobility of the medical profession.

Members of the delegation also underscored their association's long-standing commitment to public health and national service, reiterating their readiness to coordinate with both central and state authorities during emergencies, natural disasters, and conflict situations.

The IMA delegation also informed the Minister about their activities like coaching and mentorship programmes for NEET exam aspirants, particularly targeting students from underserved and remote areas. The initiative aims to bridge educational gaps and support aspiring medical students with quality guidance, aligning with the Association's broader commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The meeting concluded with the Minister encouraging deeper institutional collaboration between the Government and IMA, especially in areas of disaster response and health emergency management. In a time when security dynamics are fast-evolving, the medical community's assurance of unwavering support lends a crucial layer of resilience to the national emergency response framework.