J&K’s health sector is getting a shot as Union Minister JP Nadda has set the date of AIIMS as March

Union Health and Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda inspects the ongoing development work of AIIMS Hospital at Awantipora in Gota, Pulwama on Thursday (November 5, 2026). | Photo credit: ANI

Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Thursday (November 5, 2026) announced that the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Awantipora in south Kashmir will be completed by March 2027.

“AIIMS, Awantipora, is a priority project. The agencies concerned should maintain the pace and complete the remaining construction work by March 2027,” Mr. Nadda said while reviewing the project.

While reviewing the construction plan and handing over in phases, the Union Minister was informed that Phase-I buildings including OPD Registration Block, OPD Block, residential buildings and designated hostels have been completed. Stock verification and formal handover processes are underway.

“Remaining academic, administrative, hospital, residential and hostel infrastructure is being taken up gradually,” officials said.

Mr. Nadda also directed that all essential contracts required for commencement of OPD services should be completed on priority. Procurement of 180 items of medical equipment worth ₹ 59.41 crore has been approved, out of which Award Notices have been issued for 140 items.

Officials said the academic activities, including commencement of MBBS classes, are proposed for the academic session 2027-28, from June to July 2027.

J&K Heath Minister Sakima Itoo, who welcomed the Union Minister, appreciated the center for its support in strengthening the health infrastructure of J&K.

“It was very fortunate that the Union Health Minister, who had earlier announced 50 MBBS seats, today announced that 100 MBBS students will be starting classes here soon. The launch of OPD services at AIIMS Awantipora will make a huge difference to patients in Kashmir who currently have to travel long distances for advanced treatment,” Ms. Itoo said.

AIIMS Awantipora is expected to significantly expand healthcare capacity in the region.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Iltija Mufti said AIIMS Awantipora was a dream not only envisioned by Mufti (Muhammad Sayeed) sahab but also fulfilled 10 years later is a proof of his vision for J&K. “I really wish he was alive because it would have given him immense happiness if South Kashmir had received top-notch healthcare,” Ms Mufti said.

Published – November 6, 2026 06:58 IST