- Initiates e-foundation for multiple projects; releases SKIMS Annual Report
- Inaugurates Emergency Operation Theatre at SKIMS Medical University Complex
- Honors former directors, faculty, and non-faculty members of SKIMS
- Reviews SKIMS exhibition displaying innovative contributions from various departments
SRINAGAR, Dec 5: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed the 42nd Annual Day celebrations of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Soura, held at the Institute’s auditorium.
During the event, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated and laid e-foundation stones for several projects, demonstrating the government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure.
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While addressing those in attendance, the Chief Minister emphasized the crucial role SKIMS has played in elevating the healthcare system of Jammu and Kashmir.
He commended the Institute for its essential services and its preparedness to respond during emergencies.
Moreover, he acknowledged that SKIMS delivers technologically advanced and evidence-based healthcare services to the public.
The Chief Minister congratulated SKIMS’ administration, faculty, and staff for their outstanding performance, particularly during the challenging periods of the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. Reflecting on Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s vision, the Chief Minister pointed out that SKIMS was established to provide advanced healthcare facilities within J&K, minimizing the need for patients to seek treatment outside the region.
He also highlighted the significance of medical tourism, expressing a desire for an infrastructure upgrade around SKIMS to fulfill this vision.
The Chief Minister called for reducing referrals to SKIMS by enhancing sub-district and district hospitals, which would alleviate the pressure on the Institute.
He voiced concerns regarding administrative interference that hampers SKIMS’ operations and promised to prioritize restoring its autonomy.
To further support the Institute, the Chief Minister guaranteed full government backing to ensure patients receive high-quality healthcare. During the occasion, he e-inaugurated several facilities, such as the Attendants Inn with washroom facilities in the emergency block, the Attendants Inn at the Maternity Hospital, the 4DCT Simulator at Radiation Oncology, and the Daycare Ward.
He also laid foundation stones for the Sports Ground, Transport Yard, and additional space for attendants.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Emergency Operation Theatre Block and commissioned the SKIMS Medical University Complex, enhancing emergency and educational services.
Earlier, the Chief Minister toured an exhibition organized by SKIMS, showcasing innovative contributions and success stories from various departments. On this occasion, he also released the Annual Report of SKIMS, detailing significant achievements and activities of the Institute. Minister of Health & Medical Education, Sakina Masood Itoo, also spoke at the gathering, emphasizing Sher-i-Kashmir’s vision of establishing SKIMS as a premier medical facility for the residents of J&K.
Director SKIMS, Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganai, offered an extensive overview of the Institute’s contributions to public healthcare during his address.
Other distinguished attendees included Minister of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, former J&K Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, and several MLAs.
The event was also attended by Secretary Health & Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, senior faculty members, former directors, and other staff from SKIMS.
