Jammu and Kashmir Orthopaedic Association Conference (8th JKOACON) 2025, held from October 16 to 18, 2025, at the historic Government Hospital for Bone and Joint Surgery, Barzulla, Srinagar.
The Jammu and Kashmir Orthopaedic Association Conference (8th JKOACON) 2025, a premier gathering of orthopaedic professionals, was successfully held from October 16 to 18, 2025, at the historic Government Hospital for Bone and Joint Surgery, Barzulla, Srinagar.
The event was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for Health and Medical Education , Ms SaKeena Itoo, whose presence underscored the government’s commitment to advancing specialty healthcare and academic collaboration in the region.
In her inaugural address, the Health and Medical Education Minister lauded the orthopaedic fraternity for its dedication to clinical excellence, innovation, and service delivery. She emphasised the importance of such academic platforms in shaping evidence-based practices and fostering inter-institutional synergy.
The occasion was further graced by the Secretary Health and Medical Education , Dr Syed Abid Rashid, whose administrative vision and steadfast support have been instrumental in enabling academic growth across medical institutions in Jammu & Kashmir. His remarks highlighted the need for sustained investment in medical education, skill-building, and research infrastructure.
A special note of appreciation was extended to the Principal of Government Medical College Srinagar, Dr Iffat Hassan Shah , whose leadership and mentorship has been pivotal in hosting this prestigious event. Under her stewardship, the college continues to serve as a beacon of academic rigor and surgical training, nurturing generations of orthopaedic surgeons and clinicians.
This three-day event brought together leading orthopaedic surgeons, researchers, and medical professionals from across the region and beyond to exchange knowledge, discuss advancements, and address critical challenges in the field of orthopaedics. JKOACON 2025 featured a robust program, including keynote addresses, workshops, panel discussions, and presentations of cutting-edge research and innovative surgical techniques.
The conference focused on enhancing patient care through the adoption of modern technologies, evidence-based practices, and collaborative approaches to tackling complex musculoskeletal conditions. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in hands-on sessions, relive surgical discussions and explore the latest advancements in joint replacement, trauma care, sports injuries, and pediatric orthopaedics.
Dr. Altaf Kawoosa , Organizing Chairperson of JKOACON 2025, stated, “We are thrilled to host 8th JKOACON 2025 at the Hospital for Bone and Joint Surgery, Barzulla. This conference has provided a vital platform for professionals to share expertise, foster innovation, and strengthen our commitment to improving orthopaedic care in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.”
Prominent national speakers to note a few Dr Navin Thakkar President elect IOA , Dr Rajeev Raman Secretary general IOA, Dr Rakesh Rajput renowned Arthroplasty surgeon , and other excellent faculty from within and outside the state were present at the meeting
Lifetime achievement award was presented to Dr Manzoor A Halwai , Prominent orthopedician and ex Head of department Orthopaedics for his contributions to orthopaedic care in the region.
The event also highlighted the region’s growing prominence in medical excellence, showcasing the state-of-the-art facilities at the New Block of Hospital for Bone and Joint Surgery, Barzulla. JKOACON 2025 reaffirmed the association’s dedication to advancing orthopaedic education, research, and community health initiatives.
In a symbolic gesture promoting community health awareness, the conference was followed by a spirited “Marathon for Healthy Joints”, flagged off under a vibrant banner that drew attention to the importance of mobility, preventive care, and active lifestyles. The initiative resonated with medical professionals of different age groups , reinforcing the orthopaedic fraternity’s role in holistic well-being.
Vote of thanks was presented by Dr Iftikhar wani , Joint organising secretary 8th JKOACON 2025 who extended gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and organizers for making JKOACON 2025 a resounding success.
