Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Dec 05 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) for its “invaluable” contributions to the people of Jammu and Kashmir “despite the challenges it has faced over the years”.
Speaking during the 42nd annual day function of SKIMS in Srinagar, Abdullah, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “SKIMS has emerged as a beacon of hope for the people of J&K. “Despite facing numerous odds, it has consistently delivered exceptional medical care, introduced advanced healthcare technologies, and nurtured talented medical professionals.”
Acknowledging the growing demand for specialised medical education, Omar announced that the government is planning to establish a dedicated Medical University at SKIMS. The proposal aims to expand the institute’s capacity for academic and research excellence, making it a hub for medical education in the region.
He assured that the government would extend all necessary support to address the challenges faced by SKIMS, including staff shortages, outdated equipment, and infrastructure needs.
The chief minister commended the dedication of healthcare workers at SKIMS, particularly their efforts during crises. He called for providing them with the necessary resources and an environment conducive to delivering top-notch services.
“SKIMS is not just an institute; it is a lifeline for the people of J&K. The proposed Medical University will further empower it to serve better,” Abdullah said.
Omar said that snatching the autonomy has badly impacted the functioning of the SKIMS. “The institute had its own engineering wing for maintenance of all equipment but that isn’t the case now due to which SKIMS is facing challenges. In a recent incident, the power supply of SKIMS Soura went off for around eight minutes and it is due to that SKIMS doesn’t have its own engineering wing now.”
He said the procurement procedures have been taking more time and that needs to be redressed and this premier institute must get all equipment and medicine on time. “There hasn’t been any recruitment in many departments in SKIMS in the last 10 years and one nurse has to take care of 30 beds at the hospital, which is quite unfortunate,” he said.
Abdullah assured the SKIMS administration that every possible step will be taken for better patient care, recruitment and rationalisation so that the institute gets every necessary equipment and medicine on time will be taken—(KNO)
