The issue of unemployment among dentists in Jammu and Kashmir has been a long-standing concern, demanding immediate government intervention. The state’s dental students are increasingly losing faith in the profession’s future prospects, with many abandoning their education midway. This crisis reflects the lack of focus on dentistry as a critical field in healthcare planning. Jammu and Kashmir only have one private dental college, with government dental colleges in both Jammu and Srinagar. Despite the pressing need, the state government has done little to create employment opportunities for young dentists. While some assurances were given during the Health and Medical Education Minister’s visit to these colleges, the ground reality remains grim. It is imperative for the government to take decisive steps to address the challenges in this sector. Currently, 80% of the population suffers from some form of dental issue, yet government hospitals across the state have failed to establish an adequate number of posts for dentists. Shockingly, no recruitment of dentists has been conducted in government hospitals for over 15 years. This neglect forces people in remote areas to seek treatment from unqualified practitioners, often resulting in further complications. The lack of attention to this crucial aspect of public healthcare is alarming and demands immediate corrective action. To promote the profession and encourage young dentists, the government must provide employment opportunities at the state level. A robust policy that integrates dentistry into the broader healthcare framework is essential. Setting up new clinics and enhancing dental facilities in rural and urban areas would not only improve public health but also generate much-needed jobs for unemployed dentists. The newly formed government is expected to tackle this issue with urgency. The demand for employment opportunities for dentists has been highlighted by students and professionals alike. Addressing the broader unemployment crisis, particularly among medical professionals, should be a priority for the administration. Establishing new medical colleges and ensuring the effective functioning of existing dental colleges is a crucial step forward. The Department of Health and Medical Education must collaborate with the state government to create posts for dentists and enhance dental care facilities. The government must take immediate and decisive action to resolve this pressing issue, ensuring a brighter future for young dentists while improving dental healthcare for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
