 Early Times Report
KATRA, Apr 26: In a heartwarming chapter of service and compassion, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to public welfare by sponsoring life-changing cochlear implant surgeries for four children with profound hearing loss. These young lives, until now locked in silence, have been gifted the blessing of sound - a future full of voice, learning, and belonging.
What makes this even more special is that the very hospital where these complex surgeries were performed - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital (SMVDNSH), Kakryal - is itself the visionary creation of the Shrine Board. Established through a public-private partnership with Narayana Health, this modern healthcare institution stands as a testament to the Shrine Board's long-term vision of accessible, world-class medical care in the region.
"The Shrine Board's mission extends far beyond spiritual service. We have built this hospital to ensure that people of Jammu & Kashmir, especially those in remote and underserved areas, have access to the best medical care. These surgeries reflect our commitment to not just providing infrastructure but also financial assistance to the most vulnerable. It is heartening to witness these children now beginning a life filled with sound - a divine blessing in its truest form," said Mr. Anshul Garg (IAS), Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
SMVDNSH is the only hospital in the Jammu region currently equipped to perform advanced cochlear implant surgeries, thanks to its cutting-edge infrastructure, dedicated team, and the Shrine Board's constant support. The four surgeries were conducted successfully by Dr. Rohan Gupta, ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgeon. These children will now begin their speech therapy and auditory rehabilitation journey - a vital phase that will help them speak, learn, and integrate into mainstream society.
"Each cochlear implant we perform is a miracle made possible by the Shrine Board's support. Without their vision and generosity, such transformative care would be out of reach for many. The hospital they've established isn't just a building - it's a symbol of hope and healing for the entire region," said Dr. M. M. Mathavan, Facility Director, SMVDNSH.
"We are proud to be part of a model that unites faith, compassion, and excellence in healthcare. These surgeries represent what can be achieved when institutions work with purpose. The Shrine Board's vision, paired with clinical expertise, is giving children a chance to live full and empowered lives," said Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, SMVDIME.
The Shrine Board has played a central role not just in constructing this state-of-the-art facility, but also in consistently supporting patients who cannot afford such advanced care. From critical care to cancer treatment to cochlear implants - the Board has ensured that no life is left behind due to financial constraints.
Importantly, the Shrine Board has committed to continuing this noble initiative, extending support to many more children in the future who suffer from hearing loss but lack the means to seek treatment. Their ongoing assistance reaffirms their mission of inclusive health and social justice - where no child is denied the sound of life.
As the sacred chants of "Jai Mata Di" echo through Trikuta Hills, they now echo in the newfound voices of these four children - voices that were once silent, now brought to life through the divine service and vision of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. |
