Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today addressed the 42nd Annual Day celebrations of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, held in the Institute’s auditorium. On the occasion, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated and laid e-foundation stones for several projects, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the indispensable role SKIMS has played in enhancing the healthcare system of Jammu and Kashmir. He praised the Institute for its invaluable services and its readiness to respond in times of exigency.
He further noted that SKIMS provides technologically advanced and evidence-based healthcare services to the general public. Chief Minister congratulated SKIMS administration, faculty, and staff for their exemplary performance, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises.
Reflecting on the vision of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the Chief Minister remarked that SKIMS was founded to offer advanced healthcare facilities within J&K, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside the region.
He also emphasized the importance of medical tourism, expressing hope for infrastructure upgrade around SKIMS to make this vision a reality. Chief Minister called for minimizing referrals to SKIMS by strengthening sub-district and district hospitals, thereby reducing the pressure on the Institute.
He expressed concern about administrative interference undermining SKIMS’ functioning and pledged to restore its autonomy on a priority basis. To further strengthen the Institute, the Chief Minister assured full government support to ensure patients receive top-quality healthcare.
During the event, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated multiple facilities, including the Attendants Inn with washroom facilities at the emergency block, the Attendants Inn at the Maternity Hospital, the 4DCT Simulator at Radiation Oncology, and the Daycare Ward.
He also laid e-foundation stones for the Sports Ground, Transport Yard, and construction of more space for attendants. Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Emergency Operation Theatre Block and commissioned the SKIMS Medical University Complex, further enhancing emergency and educational facilities.
Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected an exhibition organized by SKIMS, which showcased innovative contributions and success stories from various departments of the Institute. On the occasion, he also released the Annual Report of SKIMS, highlighting the Institute’s significant achievements and activities.
Minister of Health & Medical Education, Sakina Masood Itoo, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing Sher-i-Kashmir’s vision of establishing SKIMS as a world-class medical facility for the people of J&K. Director SKIMS, Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganai, provided a comprehensive overview of the Institute’s contributions to public healthcare in his speech.
Other dignitaries present at the event 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 MLA’s.
The event was also attended by Secretary Health & Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, senior faculty members, former directors, and other staff members of SKIMS.