Minister promises to fill vacancies in health dept, increase old age pensions
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Minister, Sakeena Itoo on Thursday announced that construction work on the Government Medical College (GMC) in Handwara is expected to resume shortly.
During her visit to Chogul Handwara, Itoo, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), assessed the project’s progress and funding usage. She called for a fully operational medical college in the region.
Accompanied by National Conference leader Choudhary Ramzan and various department officials, Itoo expressed her commitment to enhancing healthcare services in Handwara.
The minister said there are thousands of vacancies within the health department. “All these vacancies will be filled soon,” she promised. “The presence of qualified medical staff is crucial for improving healthcare outcomes in local hospitals.”
Sakina reaffirmed the National Conference’s promise to increase old age pensions from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 for senior citizens and widows, saying that the party is dedicated to fulfilling its commitments.
The minister also announced that dialysis facilities will soon be established in Handwara, which will allow local patients to receive essential care without the need to travel to Baramulla or Srinagar.