MBBS Seats Increased to 100; Advanced Cancer Diagnostics Sought
Kulgam | Nov, 07: Outpatient Department (OPD) services at AIIMS Awantipora are expected to commence within the ongoing month, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakina Itoo announced during a media interaction in Gudder on Saturday.
“It would be an important step towards ensuring access to advanced healthcare facilities closer to people’s homes, reducing their dependence on hospitals outside the Union Territory,” Itoo said, adding that Union Health Minister J P Nadda had recently directed officials to expedite the institute’s operationalisation.
The Minister confirmed that her request to expand MBBS seats at AIIMS Awantipora from 50 to 100 has been accepted by the central government, reports said. She added that the expanded quota will create greater educational opportunities for regional medical aspirants and strengthen local health infrastructure.
“Cancer cases are increasing at an alarming rate in Jammu and Kashmir. I have requested the Union Health Minister to ensure that advanced machinery and diagnostic facilities, particularly for cancer detection, are made available at AIIMS Awantipora. Early diagnosis is crucial, as it can help patients receive timely treatment and improve their chances of recovery,” she said.
Officials noted that AIIMS Awantipora remains a key centrally sponsored healthcare project expected to serve as a major hub for tertiary care, research, and education in the region.
