Govt resolute to deliver equitable, inclusive, affordable healthcare: Minister Sakeena Itoo

KULGAM, MARCH 18: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today inaugurated 50 bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Chawalgam here.
The Hospital, constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs. 7.40 crores, marks a significant milestone in the Government’s sustained efforts to promote traditional systems of medicine alongside modern healthcare services.
MLA Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami; Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam; Director Ayush, ADC Kulgam, CMO Kulgam, Nodal Officer Ayush, CEO Kulgam, senior officers of district administration and large number of locals were also present on the occasion.
In her address after the inauguration ceremony, Minister Sakeena underscored the Omar Abdullah led Government’s commitment to expanding quality healthcare services to the grassroots level. She emphasized that the integration of AYUSH systems with conventional medicine will not only broaden treatment options but also revive and institutionalize time-tested indigenous healing practices.
“The Government is resolute in its mission to deliver equitable, inclusive, and affordable healthcare to every citizen. The inauguration of this Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Kulgam reflects our vision of a robust and diversified healthcare system that respects tradition while embracing innovation”, the Minister stated.
She highlighted that the newly established facility will provide comprehensive and integrated treatment modalities under Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, and Homeopathy (AYUSH), ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare to the people of Kulgam and adjoining areas.
Highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare, Minister Sakeena remarked that AYUSH plays a crucial role in lifestyle management, chronic disease care and immunity enhancement. She added that this hospital will also serve as a centre for health awareness, community outreach programmes, and capacity-building initiatives.
“This 50-bedded hospital is equipped with well-furnished inpatient wards, specialized outpatient departments, Panchakarma therapy units, diagnostic facilities, Yoga and wellness centres and dedicated consultation chambers to ensure high standards of treatment and patient care”, she stated.
The Minister reiterated that strengthening healthcare infrastructure in underserved and rural areas remains a top priority of the Government. She assured the public that necessary resources and manpower would be provided to ensure the smooth and efficient functioning of the hospital.
She also said that the macdamization of approach road to the hospital as well as other works related to landscaping of exteriors of hospital will be taken in due course of time.
The Minister underlined that the Government led by Omar Abdullah in last 18 months has given max priority to Health sector.
MLA Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami in his address lauded the healthcare professionals for their remarkable contribution to Health sector.
Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, while speaking on the occasion, outlined the development of healthcare network in Kulgam district, adding that a robust healthcare infrastructure has been established in the district for the people.