Nadda Sets Spring 2027 Deadline for AIIMS Kashmir

Union Minister’s Deadline

Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has set a spring 2027 deadline for the completion of the AIIMS Awantipora project in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. This was announced on November 5, 2026, according to a Greater Kashmir report.

Project Details

The AIIMS Awantipora, a 750-bedded tertiary-care institution, is being built at a cost of over Rs 2160 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). Originally approved in January 2019, the project has experienced delays. The cost has been revised from Rs 1828 crore to Rs 2160 crore.

Timeline for Services

• Outpatient Department (OPD) services are expected to begin before December 2026.
• Inpatient Department (IPD) services are currently scheduled to commence in July 2027.
• Academic activities, including MBBS classes, are planned to begin during the 2027-28 academic session, with MBBS seats available by June-July 2027.

Capacity and Recruitment

The institute will initially admit 100 MBBS students, an increase from the previously announced capacity of 50. A total of 652 personnel will be engaged, including 150 security personnel. Recruitment for faculty and non-faculty positions is underway, with the administration directed to expedite the process.

Infrastructure Progress

According to the report, all major buildings, including the OPD registration block, OPD block, residential buildings, and designated hostels, have been completed. Inventory verification and handover processes are currently in progress. Remaining infrastructure is under construction.

Equipment Procurement

Procurement approval has been received for 180 medical equipment items worth Rs 59.41 crore. Contracts have been awarded for nearly 140 items, focusing on OPD instruments, laboratory equipment, and furniture. The HITES and Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora are directed to coordinate equipment procurement.

Regional Impact

The operationalization of AIIMS Awantipora is expected to alleviate the burden on existing healthcare facilities in Kashmir and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the region for specialized consultations and tertiary-level treatment. J&K Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo anticipates 100 MBBS seats will be available starting in summer 2027.

Source: Greater Kashmir. Featured image credit: Greater Kashmir.