J&K’s health sector receives a shot in arm as Union Minister J.P. Nadda sets AIIMS deadline for March

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 would be completed by March 2027.

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

During a review of the phase-wise construction and handover plan, the Union Minister was informed that Phase-I buildings, including the OPD Registration Block, OPD Block, residential buildings and designated hostels, had been completed. Inventory verification and formal handover processes are under way.

“The remaining academic, administrative, hospital, residential and hostel infrastructure is being taken up in a phased manner,” officials said.

Mr. Nadda also directed that all essential procurements required for the commencement of OPD services be completed on priority. Approval has been conveyed for the procurement of 180 medical equipment items worth ₹59.41 crore, of which Notices of Award have been issued for 140 items.

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

J&K Heath Minister Sakima Itoo, who welcomed the Union Minister, praised the Centre for its support in reinforcing the healthcare infrastructure of J&K. 

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

The AIIMS Awantipora is expected to significantly augment the region’s healthcare capacity.

Meanwhile, Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti said the AIIMS Awantipora was a dream not only envisaged by Mufti (Muhammad Sayeed) sahab but also fulfilled 10 years later is a testament of his vision for J&K. “Really wish he was alive because it would’ve given him immense happiness to see south Kashmir get top notch healthcare,” said Ms. Mufti.