SRINAGAR, DEC 05 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that SKIMS must be restored to self-reliance for better healthcare services.
Speaking to reporters after attending annual day of SKIMS, Omar said that SKIMS was built to ensure that residents of J&K do not have to travel to Delhi, Mumbai, or Chandigarh for medical treatment. “This hospital has served the people well, but there are still challenges that need to be addressed,” he said.
Omar said one of the major issues is the shortage of staff and delays in procurement through the Medical Supply Corporation. “SKIMS used to have its own engineering wing and procurement system, but these have been taken away. They must be restored for better efficiency.”
He said that the delays in medical supplies are a concern. “There should be a time limit for the Medical Supply Corporation to deliver materials so that patients receive timely care,” he added.
Omar assured his support to SKIMS to address these challenges. “We will do everything possible to strengthen SKIMS and ensure it continues to provide quality healthcare to the people of J&K,” he added.
He said the fight for the restoration of J&K’s statehood remains a priority. “We have to battle for our statehood and remind the government of its promises to the people,” he said.
Omar said the Prime Minister and Home Minister must deliver on their commitment to restore J&K’s statehood. “The people of J&K participated in elections with the hope that the promises made to them would be fulfilled. We need statehood back as soon as possible,” he said.
Omar said that National Conference will continue to advocate for the rights of the people of J&K and ensure their voices are heard. “Our focus is on addressing healthcare challenges and achieve statehood restoration for the benefit of all,” he added.
