Govt Orders Independent Verification of Essential Drugs Across J&K

Srinagar, April 1: As per an order arising from the General Administration Department, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has initiated a comprehensive mechanism for independent verification of the availability of essential drugs and diagnostic services across public health facilities in the Union Territory.

According to Government Order No. 516-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated April 1, 2026, District and Block Level Teams have been constituted in all districts to carry out regular inspections and assessments of healthcare institutions. The move is aimed at ensuring timely availability of medicines and diagnostics and addressing any gaps in the system.

At the district level, teams will be headed by the Assistant Commissioner (Development) and include the District Social Welfare Officer and a doctor nominated by the Chief Medical Officer. Similarly, block-level teams will function under the leadership of the Block Development Officer with medical and welfare officials as members, as detailed on page 1 of the order.

The order specifies that these teams will undertake periodic inspections of hospitals and health centres, verify stock registers and supply records, and identify shortages or bottlenecks affecting the availability of essential drugs and diagnostics. They will also assess procurement and distribution systems to ensure efficiency and adherence to prescribed norms.

Further, the teams have been directed to submit structured, evidence-based reports on a fortnightly basis for consolidation and necessary action. As noted on page 2 of the order, the Mission Director, National Health Mission, J&K, has been designated as the nodal authority at the Union Territory level for reviewing these reports and identifying systemic gaps.

The initiative reflects the government’s focus on strengthening public healthcare delivery, enhancing transparency, and ensuring that essential medicines and diagnostic services remain consistently available to the public across Jammu and Kashmir.