Health Minister Inaugurates MRI, Modular OTs at GMC Anantnag | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Friday dedicated a state-of-the-art 1.5 Tesla MRI facility to the public at Government Medical College Anantnag and inaugurated three modular operation theatres and a vitrectomy machine in the Ophthalmology Department of the associated hospital.

The event was attended by several legislators, senior health officials, and district administration officers.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the installation of the MRI facility reflects the commitment of the Omar Abdullah-led government to modernize healthcare infrastructure and expand access to advanced diagnostic services across Jammu and Kashmir.

She said the new facility will enhance patient care by enabling timely diagnosis closer to home, reducing dependence on tertiary hospitals outside the district.

Highlighting earlier upgrades, the Minister noted that the functional Cath Lab at GMC Anantnag has significantly improved cardiac care in South Kashmir and parts of the Pir Panjal region by enabling timely treatment during critical hours.

She also outlined other healthcare improvements in the district, including the relocation of the paediatric section from Sherbagh hospital and operationalization of a patient sarai to support attendants.

The Minister emphasized that strengthening diagnostic infrastructure is central to the government’s healthcare reforms aimed at improving treatment outcomes, reducing waiting time, and enhancing service delivery.

She further said that medical seats in various specialities have been increased across government medical colleges, including GMC Anantnag.

Calling for greater compassion in patient care, she urged doctors and paramedical staff to uphold high standards of professionalism and ensure optimal use and maintenance of advanced medical equipment.

The newly installed MRI facility is expected to significantly expand access to high-precision diagnostics for neurological, cardiac, oncological, and musculoskeletal conditions, while reducing referrals and easing the burden on patients in South Kashmir.