Healthcare Expansion in J&K: Minister Sakeena Itoo Inaugurates ₹1.67 Crore PHC at Kharote, Kathua

KATHUA, March 11, 2026 — In a major boost to rural medical infrastructure, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, officially dedicated the newly constructed Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Kharote to the public today.

Built at an estimated cost of ₹1.67 crore, this facility is designed to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare directly to the doorsteps of residents in Kharote and neighboring panchayats, eliminating the need for long-distance travel for basic medical services.

During the inauguration, the Minister emphasized that the government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, views healthcare and education as the twin pillars of public welfare, with a specific focus on reaching the most remote and underserved regions of Jammu and Kashmir.

Beyond the brick-and-mortar expansion, Minister Itoo detailed a broader strategy to modernize the UT’s medical landscape by installing advanced diagnostic tools such as MRI, Cath Lab, and CT Scan services in major hospitals.

To further enhance the new PHC’s utility, she directed the immediate provision of an ambulance and ordered a feasibility study for an ultrasound unit and additional staffing.

Addressing other social priorities, the Minister celebrated a 12% increase in college enrollment in the Kashmir winter zone and called for a collective crusade against drug abuse, urging educators to lead awareness campaigns.

Accompanied by MLA Kathua Dr. Bharat Bhushan and senior district officials, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making public hospitals efficient, reliable, and patient-friendly institutions for every citizen.