Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda on Thursday reviewed construction and operational preparedness at AIIMS Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir, directing agencies to complete the remaining construction work by March 2027 and expedite arrangements to begin outpatient services before December 2026.
Inpatient services are proposed to start in July 2027, subject to the completion of infrastructure and operational arrangements. Academic activities, including MBBS classes, are planned for the 2027–28 session beginning in June-July 2027.
During the review, Nadda assessed infrastructure development, equipment and furniture procurement, recruitment and readiness for medical and academic activities.
Officials informed him that construction was nearing completion, with all major buildings completed. He commended the Central Public Works Department and other stakeholders for advancing the project despite difficult terrain and other constraints.
The Phase-I buildings, including the OPD Registration Block, OPD Block, residential buildings and designated hostels, have been completed. Inventory verification and formal handover are underway, while the remaining academic, administrative, hospital and residential facilities are being taken up in phases.
Nadda directed HITES and the institute’s Executive Director to coordinate closely and accelerate procurement of medical equipment, OPD instruments, laboratory equipment and furniture. Essential purchases needed to launch outpatient services must receive priority, he said.
Procurement approval has been granted for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore, with Notices of Award issued for 140 items. Procurement of OPD instruments, laboratory furniture and medical and administrative furniture is at different stages.
The Minister asked officials to ensure that diagnostic facilities, equipment, personnel and other operational requirements were in place ahead of the launch of medical services.
He also directed the institute to fast-track faculty recruitment, fill non-faculty vacancies and engage the personnel required for outpatient and other services.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has approved essential manpower arrangements covering 652 positions across categories, including hospital attendants, housekeeping and sanitation workers, and 150 security personnel.
The review also covered campus security, transport connectivity, website development and operational partnerships. Nadda called for coordination among AIIMS Awantipora, CPWD, HITES and the local administration to resolve outstanding issues.
He said timely completion and operationalisation of the institute would expand access to quality tertiary and specialised healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir while strengthening medical education and regional healthcare capacity.
(PIB)
