New Delhi, Nov 5: The outpatient department (OPD) services at AIIMS Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir are targeted to commence before December, Union Health Minister J P Nadda said on Thursday as he reviewed the progress of the institute.
The inpatient department (IPD) services are proposed to begin in July 2027, while MBBS classes are expected to commence in the 2027-28 academic session, according to the Health ministry.
Nadda reviewed the status of infrastructure, procurement of medical equipment and furniture, recruitment of faculty and other personnel, and preparedness for starting medical and academic activities at the institute.
He directed the concerned agencies to complete the remaining construction works by March 2027 and expedite procurement and recruitment to ensure early operationalisation of the institute.
Construction of AIIMS Awantipora is nearing completion, with all major buildings having been completed, the ministry said.
The Phase-I buildings, including the OPD registration block, OPD block, residential buildings and designated hostels, have been completed, with inventory verification and formal handover underway.
Procurement approval has been conveyed for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore, of which Notices of Award have been issued for 140 items.
Procurement of OPD instruments, laboratory furniture and medical and administrative furniture is also at various stages, the ministry said.
Nadda directed HITES and the Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora to coordinate closely and ensure that all essential equipment, diagnostic facilities, furniture and other requirements for starting OPD services are completed on priority.
The minister also called for fast-tracking the recruitment of faculty and non-faculty personnel.
The ministry has approved engagement of essential manpower for operationalising the OPD and related services, covering 652 positions across various categories, including 150 security personnel.
Nadda also reviewed arrangements related to campus security, transport connectivity, website development and operational partnerships.
He directed AIIMS Awantipora, CPWD, HITES and the local administration to coordinate on security and other operational issues to ensure smooth functioning of the institute.
Appreciating the efforts of CPWD and all concerned agencies and stakeholders, Nadda commended their dedicated efforts in advancing the project despite the challenges posed by the site’s terrain and other constraints.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure across the country, Nadda emphasised that the timely completion and operationalisation of AIIMS Awantipora would be an important step towards expanding access to quality tertiary healthcare and specialised medical services in J-K.
The Institute will also strengthen medical education and contribute to the development of healthcare capacity in the region, in keeping with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure accessible and quality healthcare for all, he said.
