BUDGAM, AUGUST 06: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, today stressed the importance of providing Basic Life Support (BLS) training to every citizen to help save precious lives during accidents and medical emergencies.
He was speaking after inaugurating a day-long district-level Basic Life Support (BLS) awareness-cum-training programme at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hall, Budgam, aimed at equipping participants with life-saving skills and emergency response techniques.
The programme was organised by Civil Defence Budgam and Private Schools Association Kashmir in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Kashmir.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the organisers for taking the initiative to promote Basic Life Support training, stating that timely CPR and other basic emergency interventions can save precious lives during accidents and medical emergencies.
He stressed that BLS training is essential for every citizen and directed that it be expanded in a phased manner to cover transporters, shopkeepers, teachers, support staff, drivers and other sections of society across the district.
Emphasising practical learning, the Deputy Commissioner said the focus should remain on hands-on training so that participants gain the confidence to respond effectively during emergency situations.
“I urge every participant to make the best use of this training and further disseminate the knowledge among their family members, colleagues and communities,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of creating awareness about trauma care protocols to strengthen emergency response and improve survival outcomes.
Stressing the need for student safety, the DC informed that the District Administration is conducting an audit of private school buses. He urged school authorities to adopt self-regulation and ensure strict compliance with all safety norms, including the operation of only registered vehicles, installation of CCTV cameras in school buses and adherence to transport guidelines in coordination with the ARTO and Traffic Department.
On the occasion, the DC also distributed insurance support of Rs 15 lakh among the trained participants.
Speaking on the occasion, President, Private Schools Association Kashmir, Baba Nazrul Islam, said Budgam is the first district where all private school staff will undergo structured Basic Life Support training and receive certification, demonstrating their preparedness to effectively respond to emergencies. He described the initiative as a historic step towards strengthening safety standards in educational institutions.
Deputy Controller Civil Defence Budgam, Amara Naseem, highlighted the department’s efforts to expand Basic Life Support training among ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, private school support staff, physical education teachers and other frontline personnel to build a resilient community capable of responding effectively during emergencies.
Among others present on the occasion were Chief Education Officer Bashir Ahmad, Division Warden Rahi Reyaz, President, Private Schools Association Budgam, Shahnawaz Shafi Qureshi, representatives of the Private Schools Association, Civil Defence officials and school managements from across the district.
