Kashmir Impulse Desk

Sopore, May 8 

Haneefa Nursing College, in collaboration with Hakim Sonuallah Specialist Hospital and Cancer Centre, organised an inter-college declamation competition and expert panel discussion on the theme of declining birth rates in Kashmir, organisers said on Thursday.

The event brought together students from 18 nursing colleges across the Kashmir Valley to discuss the causes and implications of falling birth rates and possible measures to address the issue.

Participants delivered speeches examining social, economic, medical and cultural factors that they said were contributing to the demographic trend, including delayed marriages, career priorities among youth, stress, infertility-related concerns, migration and changing lifestyle patterns.

Students also discussed the possible long-term consequences of declining population growth on workforce availability, family structures, economic stability and broader social dynamics in the region.

Several participants called for increased awareness programmes, counselling initiatives and policy interventions related to reproductive and maternal health.

Following the declamation competition, healthcare specialists, academicians and medical professionals participated in a panel discussion on the medical, psychological and societal dimensions of declining birth rates.

The experts stressed the importance of improved healthcare facilities, timely medical consultation for fertility-related concerns and greater public awareness regarding reproductive health.

Panelists also highlighted the role of youth participation in social dialogue and policymaking related to demographic and public health issues.

Organisers said the programme aimed to provide students with an academic platform to exchange ideas and engage in discussion on social challenges facing Kashmir.

At the conclusion of the event, awards and certificates were distributed among the top participants in recognition of their presentations and speeches.