Geetanjali Institute of Pharmacy (http://www.pharmainfo.net/pharmacycollege/india/rajasthan/geetanjali-ins...) has celebrated National Pharmacy Week from the date 10th - 15th November, 2008. Dr. A. N. Mathur, Director, Geetanjali Institute of Technical Studies was the Chief Guest, Mr. M. S. Bhatt, Director, Geetanjali Foundation was the Guest of Honor & Prof. Ashok Dashora, Geetanjali Institute of Pharmacy presided over the inaugural function. Prof. Dashora endorsed and emphasized the importance of the week.

In his inaugural speech Mr. Bhatt highlighted the importance of pharmacist in society and Dr. Mathur explained the phenomenic growth of Pharma industry after independence and in post – GATT times that has resulted in increased career opportunities for Pharma graduates.

During this period institute has organized a Public awareness rally in village - Dabok to create awareness among the society with the theme: “Ask your Pharmacist: for Safe use of prescription medicines”.

Furthermore institute has arranged Blood Donation Camp at its own medical college campus, where more than 30 students have willingly donated their blood. Apart from these literary, sports and cultural events have also been conducted and around 150 pharmacy students keenly participated and 80 prize winners were encouraged.

During the weeklong programme Students and Staff members took part in the Essay Competition on the topic “Safe use of Prescription Medicines”, Rangoli Competition, Poster Presentation (History of Pharmacy), Poster Making (Pharmacy services in community), Visiting the Medicinal Garden, Slogan Writing, Games (Cricket, Volley ball, Basket ball, Badminton, Table Tennis, Chess, Carrom), Debate (Pharmacist is a bridge between patient & doctor for safe use of medicine), Extempore, Group Discussion, Pharma Quiz, Collas, Mehndi Competition, Scientific Exhibition, Blood Group & Blood Pressure detection camp, Scientific Seminar (Hazards of OTC medicines), Village health awareness tour was organized with about five students and staff members in Dabok village.

Prize distribution and valedictory function “SAANJH - 2008” was held on 15th November. Mr. Alok Bhargava, Registrar, Rajasthan Pharmacy Council was the Honorable Chief Guest & Mr. Suresh Samar, Drug Controlling Officer, Rajsamand was the Guest of Honor. Mr. Bhargava addressed the students and assured them for better future in the field of pharmacy, he emphasized over the placement of pharmacist in India. He has strongly supported to create the more posts of pharmacists in Rajasthan & Mr. Samar delivered a speech on the theme & linked the pharmaceutical industries with pharmacy education. He told the safe and unsafe use of medicines with & without prescription.