Srinagar, Nov 5: Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Thursday reviewed the progress of construction and operationalisation of AIIMS Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, directing officials to expedite the remaining works and ensure the early commencement of medical services.
During the review meeting, Nadda was informed that all major buildings at the institute had been completed, while the remaining construction works were being undertaken in phases. He directed the concerned agencies to complete the outstanding works by March 2027.
The minister reviewed the status of infrastructure, procurement of medical equipment and furniture, recruitment of faculty and other staff, and preparations for starting healthcare and academic activities at the institute.
According to an official statement, OPD services at AIIMS Awantipora are targeted to begin before December 2026, while inpatient department (IPD) services are proposed to commence in July 2027. MBBS classes are also expected to start in the 2027–28 academic session, beginning June–July 2027.
Nadda directed the Hospital Services Consultancy Corporation (HITES) and the institute’s Executive Director to coordinate closely and expedite the procurement of medical equipment, diagnostic instruments and other essential facilities required to start OPD services.
The minister was informed that procurement approval had been granted for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore. Notices of Award had been issued for 140 of these items.
Reviewing the recruitment process, Nadda called for expediting the appointment of faculty and non-faculty staff to ensure adequate manpower before the institute becomes operational.
The Ministry has also approved the engagement of 652 personnel for OPD and related services, including hospital attendants, housekeeping and sanitation workers, and security staff. The proposed deployment includes 150 security personnel.
Nadda also reviewed arrangements related to campus security, transport connectivity, website development and other operational requirements. He stressed the need 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 improve access to specialised and tertiary healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen medical education in the region.
The minister appreciated the efforts of the agencies involved in completing the major buildings despite challenging terrain and other constraints.
