AIIMS Jammu, with INR 1,661 Cr Investment to be Operational by January End

Allocating INR 1404 Cr for infrastructure, INR 48.72 Cr for pre-construction, INR 22 Cr for non-medical furniture, and INR 185.32 Cr for medical equipment, the project aims for a January 2024 completion.

Jammu & Kashmir is on the brink of inaugurating its own All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Vijaypur town, Samba district, marking a major development for public healthcare. 

The project, with a budget of INR 1,661 Cr, has witnessed an on-the-spot inspection by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, who urged swift completion of the construction.

Allocating INR 1,404 Cr for infrastructure, INR 48.72 Cr for pre-construction, INR 22 Cr for non-medical furniture, and INR 185.32 Cr for medical equipment, the project aims for a January 2024 completion. Moreover, an additional funding of INR 203 Cr is sought from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to meet the impending deadline.

Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that the early completion of AIIMS Jammu will provide a vital healthcare hub for the people of the Jammu division and surrounding areas.

In an on-site inspection, Dr Singh scrutinised various project components, offering guidance for necessary adjustments to ensure optimal healthcare provision. 

Mukesh Meena, chief engineer, CPWD outlined the extensive 226.84 acre AIIMS Jammu complex, detailing the north and south parcels, housing medical facilities, educational institutions, and residential amenities.

CPWD has already completed essential structures including the AYUSH building, animal facilities, solid waste management building, electrical substation, night shelter, fire station, auditorium, and academic building. The hospital tower, diagnostic block, and remaining structures are slated for completion by the end of the month.

Prof Dr Shakti Gupta, director of AIIMS Jammu, reported progress in manpower recruitment, with faculty and administrative staff already in place. A proposal for 449 additional posts has been submitted to MoH&FW. 

Equipment installation and technical requirements are in the final stages, signalling that AIIMS Jammu is poised to contribute significantly to the nation's healthcare landscape.

In related healthcare initiatives in Jammu & Kashmir, Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, recently unveiled India's first Tele-MANAS chatbot during the 'J-K Health Conclave.' This chatbot aims to provide 24/7 access to health counsellors and psychologists, reinforcing mental health support in the region. 

Lt Governor Sinha commended the health department's efforts to address critical health challenges, emphasising patient-centred care to improve physical and emotional well-being. The per-capita spending on healthcare in J-K, he noted, is among the highest in the country, showcasing the government's commitment to prioritising healthcare.