30 docs brave terror threat to treat yatris

‘‘Our mission was to take homoeopathy to a place where none dares. Besides, we wanted people to know that homoeopathy is in no way inferior to allopathy and has helped many incurable diseases,’’ says Amarsinh Nikam of Pimpri-based Aditya Homoeopathy and Healing Centre, who took the initiative in organising the tour.

The centre had also held similar free medical camps during the recently-held Nashik Kumbh Mela.

Doctors claim it was the first of a kind medical tour to Amarnath. ‘‘We were told by Army personnel and the locals that only a few doctors are available there,’’ Nikam said. ‘‘Nobody ventured, so we took the unconventional route.’’

Nearly 400 pilgrims were treated for high BP and breathing problem by the doctors who had lugged medicine and other equipment to the cave located at 3,952 metre above sea level.

Medicines worth thousands of rupees were given free of cost. ‘‘When the mission is from the heart, money takes a back seat,’’ Nikam said, adding it a was dream come true for many doctors. ‘‘Everybody pitched in — providing money, services, idea, and above all, there was collective fearlessness.’’

Anita Patil, a lecturer with Pune’s Bharti Vidyapeeth, said: ‘‘It was a thrilling experience. I would love to visit the place again.’’