Jammu, Jan 19 (IANS): The army under its Sadbhavna (goodwill) programme imparted first-aid training in case of emergency to youth in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, a defence official said here Saturday.

A first-of-its-kind activity at the border district, around 230 km from here, the week-long training session was attended by 50 youth from Kalai, Mandi, Arai and Loran; the camp was held at Arai in Poonch district and concluded Friday evening, Defence spokesperson Col. R.K. Palta said.

"The initiative was aimed at medically empowering the youth to provide emergency first-aid to patients before they are evacuated to a nearby hospital, and help save lives," he said.

The medical officer, who led the training team, said that timely assistance, comprising simple medical techniques, is most critical to victims and can be life-saving.

Giving details of the training, the officer said: "The youths were imparted training for first-aid to those who have suffered bites, stings, bruises, burns or fracture. Removal of a foreign object in the body, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, accidental bleeding and heart attack were also dealt with."

The training included a study of basic human anatomy and commonly used medicines. "Practical training included administering of splints in fracture, related cases and dressing of wounds," the medical officer said.

The officer said that the participants appeared to be eager learners, and that he was impressed by how much they assimilated in a short time.