Srinagar, April 7: In a major step towards modernizing healthcare infrastructure, the Director of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Dr Muhammad Ashraf Ganaie, on Sunday announced a significant upgrade at the premier medical institute. Speaking at a press conference held in Srinagar on the occasion of World Health Day, Dr Ganaie said that SKIMS has already procured medical equipment worth over Rs 50 crore, with an additional Rs 40 crore worth of machinery in the pipeline. Furthermore, a proposal seeking Rs 55 crore has been submitted to ensure the institute remains equipped with the most advanced medical technology.
According to Dr Ganaie, the procurement has been conducted through official channels and is part of a broader initiative to elevate SKIMS to match top-tier healthcare standards across the country. The fresh induction of advanced life-saving and diagnostic machinery is expected to greatly strengthen SKIMS’s ability to provide high-end treatment, especially in critical care and specialized procedures.
Among the cutting-edge equipment recently acquired are 150 ICU beds, radiofrequency ablation machines, 3D 4K visualizer towers for kidney transplants, high-speed neurosurgical drills, biochemistry and urine analyzers, wide bore CT simulators, endoscopy systems, and a range of portable imaging devices including X-ray and colour Doppler ultrasound machines. Other additions include pediatric bronchoscopy systems, high-flow nasal therapy units, bubble CPAP devices, anesthesia workstations, phototherapy units, a compound microscope, and a state-of-the-art water filtration plant.
Marking World Health Day with a major administrative decision, Dr Ganaie also announced the promotion of 1,000 SKIMS employees through Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs)—a move seen as a morale booster and recognition of the workforce’s dedication.
Responding to concerns about previously lapsed funds, Dr Ganaie stated that an internal committee would soon be formed to investigate the issue. “We are not here to point fingers, but we do believe accountability is crucial. Understanding why these funds went unused will help us avoid such lapses in the future,” he said.
The Director emphasized that while constructive criticism is welcomed, it is important to avoid unnecessarily undermining SKIMS. “This institution is a collective asset of the people. It deserves support, not slander. We are open to suggestions, but attempts to downgrade SKIMS are unfair,” Dr Ganaie added.
The infrastructure revamp at SKIMS comes at a time when healthcare needs are growing, and public expectations from tertiary care institutions are higher than ever. The upgrade is expected to further strengthen the institute’s role as the backbone of advanced medical care in Jammu and Kashmir. (CNS)
