BARAMULLA: Minister for Health and Medical Education and Social Welfare Sakina Itoo on Monday inaugurated a New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chukar in Tangmarg, constructed at a cost of ₹1.88 crore, marking a significant step towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure in rural areas.
MLA Gulmarg Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah was present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister highlighted the crucial role of primary healthcare institutions in ensuring accessible and quality medical services, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. She said the newly inaugurated health centre would substantially benefit residents of Chukar and adjoining areas by reducing the need to travel long distances for basic medical treatment and essential healthcare services.
Sakina Itoo highlighted the initiatives and achievements of the Omar Abdullah-led government, reiterating its commitment to public welfare, equitable development and strengthening essential services across Jammu and Kashmir. She said the government was pursuing a people-centric approach to improve infrastructure and service delivery, with particular emphasis on the healthcare sector.
Emphasising the need for effective functioning of the newly inaugurated facility, the Minister directed health authorities and medical staff to ensure the availability of essential medical services and provide dedicated patient care. She stressed that healthcare institutions must function with commitment, compassion and professionalism.
MLA Gulmarg also addressed the gathering and underscored the importance of strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the constituency, appreciating the ongoing efforts to improve public facilities.
Director Health Services Kashmir Dr Nighat Yasmeen, Chief Medical Officer Baramulla Dr A.G. Raina, Block Medical Officer Pattan Dr Rumina Majeed, besides other officers, healthcare professionals and local residents, were present.
Later, the Minister inspected the Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Sariwarpora in Pattan and reviewed the healthcare facilities and services available there. She assessed the functioning of the institution and stressed the need to maintain adequate medical facilities, ensure proper patient care and improve service delivery.
She directed the concerned officials to address any shortcomings and maintain high standards of healthcare to ensure better services for the local population.
In another engagement, Sakina Itoo, accompanied by MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar, MLA Pattan Javaid Riyaz and MLA Gulmarg Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, visited the residence of a medical student at Dangerpora, Sopore, who tragically lost his life in Bangladesh.
The Minister expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and conveyed her deepest sympathies. She also assured the family of the government’s support and assistance during this difficult time.
