Srinagar, Dec 5, KNT: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring the SKIMS’s autonomy, addressing staff shortages and modernizing equipment.
“Despite facing numerous challenges, SKIMS has made remarkable contributions to the region’s healthcare,” he said in his address on the 42nd foundation day of Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura in Srinagar.
Omar Abdullah acknowledged the institution’s struggles, citing financial constraints, outdated equipment, and staff shortages. He praised SKIMS authorities for managing immense pressure due to inadequate infrastructure at district and sub-district hospitals, forcing patients to seek treatment at SKIMS.
The chief minister expressed concern over SKIMS’ eroded autonomy, impacting its engineering and maintenance capabilities and medical supplies.
He said that staff shortages, particularly in nursing, have resulted in unsustainable workloads, with a single nurse managing 30 beds at night. Omar Abdullah prioritized recruitment to alleviate these pressures.
He said Sheikh Abdullah’s vision for SKIMS was to provide advanced medical care within the region, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside Jammu and Kashmir. Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s commitment to supporting SKIMS, introducing new technologies, upgrading equipment and alleviating operational burdens.
“SKIMS is a shining beacon of hope for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and my government is fully committed to supporting its growth, excellence, and continued service to the community,” Omar Abdullah said adding that restoration of SKIMS autonomy is his top priority. [KNT]
