Executive Director Dr S Mohanty

Srinagar, Aug 18: MBBS courses at the upcoming All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Awantipora are expected to commence from July 2026, while Outpatient (OPD) and Inpatient (IPD) services are likely to become operational by the end of the same year, the Executive Director of AIIMS, Dr S Mohanty, informed a Legislative Assembly committee on Monday.

The update was provided during a meeting of the House Committee on Petitions held at the Assembly Complex in Srinagar. The committee met to review the progress of the AIIMS Awantipora project, with Chairman Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah presiding. Legislators Mushtaq Guroo, Salman Sagar, Waheed u Rehman Para, Mian Mehar Ali, and Thakur Randhir Singh were also in attendance.

At the outset, the Committee conducted a detailed review of works related to infrastructure development, procurement of machinery, work force and other allied projects.

The Chairman emphasized that strict adherence to execution timelines is crucial for ensuring the timely commissioning of this prestigious project.

“This project holds immense importance for the people of Kashmir and must be completed at the earliest for their convenience and benefit,” the Chairman said.

He directed the concerned authorities to expedite the pace of all incomplete works and ensure their completion in a time-bound manner.

The Committee further stressed that AIIMS Awantipora should be commissioned as a single integrated unit, with all facilities including OPD and IPD services made operational simultaneously for the general public.

The Chairman also said that the Committee shall also undertake on spot inspection of the project to check quality and pace of work.

Executive Director AIIMS, Dr. S. Mohanty, who was also present, briefed the Committee about the progress achieved so far.

He informed that MBBS courses are expected to commence from July 2026, while OPD and IPD services are likely to start by the end of the same year.

Meanwhile, the Committee also deliberated on various other issues raised through petitions.

Members underlined that every petition would be taken up seriously and reviewed thoroughly to ensure appropriate redressal.

The Chairman stressed upon the officers to comply and submit detailed reports on the issues pertaining to their respective offices, failing which it shall be treated as non-compliance.

The discussions focused on working out practical, effective, and time-bound solutions to the grievances of citizens, with members actively offering constructive suggestions and feedback.