AIIMS Awantipora: JP Nadda Orders Fast-Track Completion for J&K Healthcare Boost
Union Minister JP Nadda directs the fast-track completion of AIIMS Awantipora, with OPD services expected to start by December 2026.
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers, JP Nadda, has conducted a comprehensive review of the construction and operationalisation of the AIIMS Awantipora progress in Jammu and Kashmir. During the assessment, the Minister underscored that the institute is a priority project and urged all involved agencies to accelerate their efforts to ensure the facility becomes functional for the public as soon as possible.
Construction Milestones and Deadlines
The Minister was briefed that the construction of AIIMS Awantipora is nearing its final stages, with all major buildings already completed. JP Nadda praised the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) and other stakeholders for their dedication, noting that the project advanced significantly despite the difficult terrain and various site constraints.
To ensure there are no further delays, the Union Minister has directed that all remaining construction works be completed by March 2027. The review highlighted the current status of the phase-wise handover plan:
- Phase-I Completed: This includes the OPD Registration Block, OPD Block, residential buildings, and designated hostels. Inventory verification and formal handover processes for these are currently underway.
- Future Phases: The remaining infrastructure, including academic, administrative, hospital, and additional residential and hostel blocks, is being developed in a phased approach.
Roadmap for Medical and Academic Services
With a clear vision for the institute's operationalisation, the Ministry has set specific target dates for the commencement of services:
- OPD Services: Targeted to begin before December 2026.
- IPD Services: Proposed to start in July 2027, contingent upon the completion of necessary infrastructure.
- Academic Session: MBBS classes are expected to commence for the 2027–28 session, starting around June or July 2027.
Procurement and Equipment Status
Recognizing that a hospital is only as good as its equipment, JP Nadda directed HITES and the Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora to coordinate closely to expedite the procurement of medical instruments, laboratory equipment, and administrative furniture. He stressed that everything required for the OPD services must be prioritized.
Currently, procurement approval has been granted for 180 medical equipment items valued at Rs 59.41 crore, with Notices of Award already issued for 140 of these items. Processes for laboratory and administrative furniture are also progressing through various stages.
Manpower and Recruitment Drive
To ensure the institute is staffed by qualified professionals, the Union Minister ordered the fast-tracking of recruitment for faculty positions. He also emphasized the need to fill non-faculty roles to support the daily operations of the OPD and other medical services.
The Ministry has already approved the engagement of essential manpower to keep the facility running. This includes 652 positions across several categories, such as:
- Hospital attendants
- Housekeeping and sanitation personnel
- Security staff (including 150 dedicated security personnel)
Institutional Readiness
Beyond medicine and construction, the review covered essential support systems. The Minister examined the status of campus security, transport connectivity, and the development of the institute's website. He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of seamless coordination between AIIMS Awantipora, CPWD, and HITES to bring this vital healthcare project to fruition.