SRINAGAR: More than 18,000 candidates appeared for diploma examinations in nursing and allied healthcare courses across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. The examinations were conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Nursing Council in conjunction with the former JK Paramedical Council.
The Chenab Times has learned that the exams were held at a total of 31 centres spread across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Of these, 17 centres were located in the Kashmir Division and 14 in the Jammu Division. A special centre was also established within the Central Jail Srinagar to accommodate a single candidate following a formal request.
The total number of candidates who sat for the examinations included 8,720 from the Kashmir Division and 9,277 from the Jammu Division. An additional 43 candidates appeared from Ladakh. The examination process covered 33 papers across 15 different streams of nursing and allied healthcare disciplines.
The successful and organised execution of these examinations highlights the ongoing efforts by the councils to uphold academic standards within the region. These efforts are also aimed at strengthening the professional training provided to individuals aspiring to work in the nursing and paramedical sectors.
The Jammu and Kashmir Nursing Council plays a crucial role in regulating nursing education and practice within the Union Territory. Established under relevant acts, the council is responsible for setting curriculum standards, conducting examinations, and ensuring the quality of nursing professionals entering the healthcare workforce. Similarly, the erstwhile JK Paramedical Council oversaw the training and examination of various allied health professionals.
The administration in Jammu and Kashmir has been focusing on improving healthcare infrastructure and the availability of skilled medical personnel. Initiatives to streamline the conduct of examinations for professional courses are considered vital in this regard, ensuring a steady supply of qualified healthcare providers for both government and private health facilities. The large turnout for the nursing diploma exams indicates a sustained interest in these career paths among the youth of the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk