SRINAGAR, February 10, 2026 – Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to restoring the autonomous status and “pristine glory” of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura. Addressing the Legislative Assembly in response to a query by Legislator Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, the Minister emphasized that SKIMS remains a cornerstone of advanced medical care in Jammu and Kashmir, originally established under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah. She noted that while administrative structures shifted following the 2019 reorganization, the institution continues to grant degrees under its 1983 Act and receives funding through the standard health budget.
The Minister detailed the government’s proactive approach since taking office in October 2024, highlighting the installation of high-end equipment—including LINAC machines and Cath Labs—across various J&K health facilities to ensure zero compromise on patient care. Regarding structural changes, Itoo explained that the previously independent SKIMS Engineering Wing has been subsumed into the Public Works (R&B) Division Soura. Despite this merger, she assured the Assembly that all developmental and maintenance projects have been transitioned smoothly, with most works now physically and financially complete. The session saw further engagement on the topic through supplementary questions from several legislators, including Tanvir Sadiq and Mir Saifullah.
