JK Govt Acknowledges Staff Shortage at SKIMS, Announces Infrastructure Upgrades in Key Hospitals

Srinagar,Mar 15 : The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday acknowledged the growing challenge of staff shortages at SKIMS Soura amid a rising patient load in both OPD and IPD sections.

Responding to a query by MLA Tanvir Sadiq, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo admitted that the increasing number of patients at SKIMS has made the staff shortage a pressing issue. She informed that the matter has been raised with recruitment agencies, and the recently notified SKIMS Recruitment Rules 2025 (S.O. 29 dated 23.01.2025) will facilitate staff promotions while also creating new vacancies at the entry level.

Addressing concerns about Government SMHS Hospital, Itoo refuted claims of excessive strain on healthcare infrastructure despite the hospital handling around 3,500 patients daily across casualty, OPD, and IPD sections. She assured that strengthening healthcare infrastructure remains a top priority, highlighting ongoing projects such as the Construction of a Theatre Block (₹5024.74 lakh), a 30-Bedded ENT Block (₹499 lakh), and the upgradation of the Medical Casualty unit (₹299.85 lakh). Additional proposals, including the upgradation of Triage and installation of new lifts, are also in progress.

Regarding JLNM Hospital, Itoo confirmed a surge in patient inflow and stated that infrastructure development is underway, including a G+4 additional block, which is expected to be completed soon. A new CT scan machine has been installed, and while some paramedic posts remain vacant, the shortfall is being addressed through manpower deployed under the National Health Mission (NHM).

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing medical facilities across the region through sustained infrastructure development and recruitment efforts.