AIIMS Awantipora OPD services to begin by December 2026, Nadda says
Union Health Minister J P Nadda has set a March 2027 deadline for completing construction at the institute.
Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Thursday reviewed the progress of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Awantipora and directed agencies to finish all remaining construction by March 2027, according to the Kashmir Observer and Daily Excelsior.
The minister stated that outpatient department (OPD) services are expected to start before December 2026, while inpatient department (IPD) services are slated for July 2027.
During the review, officials noted that Phase-I infrastructure, including the OPD block, registration block, hostels, and residential buildings, is complete. Procurement approvals for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore have been issued, with notices of award already sent for 140 items.
Nadda also called for the fast-tracking of faculty and staff recruitment. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has approved 652 personnel for various roles, including 150 security staff, hospital attendants, and sanitation workers.
Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo said the number of MBBS seats at the institute will increase from 50 to 100. She noted that academic activities are expected to start during the 2027-28 session.
Itoo also requested Nadda's assistance in the repatriation of the mortal remains of Adnan Ahmad Rather, a final-year MBBS student who died in Bangladesh.