CS for strengthening Nursing Education, Calls it backbone of healthcare system

Srinagar: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Friday chaired a meeting to review nursing education quality and standards in the Union Territory, highlighting its essential role in healthcare delivery. Key attendees included health officials, nursing college principals, and senior officers.
The Chief Secretary assessed the functioning of newly established Nursing Colleges, emphasizing the need to upgrade diploma courses to degree and postgraduate levels to enhance nursing capabilities. He directed the prompt operationalization of Nursing Colleges in Sopore, Kulgam, Shopian, and Budgam, while also considering the establishment of additional colleges in underserved districts. The Chief Secretary called for the discontinuation of outdated courses and the introduction of new programs that align with current healthcare demands. He stressed the importance of employing well-qualified faculty and urged the creation of recruitment rules and filling of vacancies to maintain high teaching standards. The meeting also reviewed the J&K State Allied & Healthcare Council’s operations, with a focus on strengthening its manpower and monitoring systems in accordance with National Commission for Allied & Healthcare Professions guidelines. The Secretary of Health and Medical Education reported significant advancements in nursing education, including the addition of new B.Sc and M.Sc Nursing seats, bringing the total capacity across approximately 50 Nursing Colleges to 3,040 seats. Furthermore, the Registrar of the J&K Nursing Council noted the successful examination of 14,738 candidates in paramedical courses and the recognition of new Pharmacy institutions. The Chairperson of the J&K Allied & Healthcare Council elaborated on the NCAHP Act, which regulates and maintains standards in allied healthcare education and services, covering 57 professions. The Chief Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening nursing education and allied healthcare systems to improve patient care and develop a skilled workforce in J&K.