Srinagar, Nov 05 (KNO): Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Thursday reviewed the progress of the under-construction All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Awantipora, and directed agencies to expedite the remaining work to ensure early operationalisation of the institute.
During the review meeting, Nadda was informed that all major buildings had been completed, while the remaining infrastructure and operational arrangements were being taken up in phases.
He, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), directed the concerned agencies to complete the pending construction works by March 2027, describing AIIMS Awantipora as a priority project that will significantly strengthen specialised healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to officials, OPD services are planned to begin before December 2026, while IPD services are proposed to start in July 2027, subject to the availability of infrastructure, equipment and manpower. Academic activities, including MBBS classes, are expected to commence in the 2027-28 academic session.
The minister reviewed infrastructure development, procurement of medical equipment and furniture, recruitment of faculty and staff, and preparedness for launching healthcare and academic services.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) and other agencies for completing major structures despite challenging conditions at the site.
Officials informed the meeting that Phase-I infrastructure, including the OPD Registration Block, OPD Block, residential buildings and designated hostels, has been completed, with inventory verification and handover formalities currently underway. The remaining academic, administrative, hospital and residential facilities are being developed and handed over in phases.
Emphasising the need for timely equipment procurement, Nadda directed HITES and the AIIMS administration to accelerate the purchase of medical equipment, laboratory instruments and furniture required for operationalising services.
The meeting was informed that procurement approvals have been issued for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore, with notices of award already issued for 140 items. Procurement of OPD instruments, laboratory furniture and other essential items is at various stages.
On recruitment, the minister called for expediting appointments of faculty and non-faculty staff to ensure adequate manpower before services commence. The Ministry has approved the engagement of 652 personnel for OPD and related services, including hospital attendants, housekeeping and sanitation workers, and security staff. Of these, 150 posts have been earmarked for security personnel.
Nadda also reviewed campus security, transport connectivity, website development and other operational arrangements, stressing close coordination among AIIMS Awantipora, CPWD, HITES and the local administration to resolve pending issues.
He said the timely completion and operationalisation of AIIMS Awantipora will improve access to tertiary and specialised healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, while also emerging as a major centre for medical education and reducing the need for patients to travel outside the Union Territory for advanced treatment—(KNO)