Srinagar: The Director of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, on Saturday announced that the 145-year-old Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial (JLNM) Hospital is set to be upgraded into a full-fledged Super Speciality Apex Institute under the Directorate of Health.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Bakshi said, “This hospital has been serving people for generations. Our aim now is to elevate it into an apex institute equipped with advanced facilities and modern infrastructure.” He added that high-tech diagnostic and medical equipment, including MRI and allergy testing machines, will soon be installed to enhance healthcare services.
“JLNM Hospital is constantly expanding. Each year, we add new departments and upgrade existing services with modern technology,” he said.
Marking a significant milestone, Dr. Bakshi also highlighted that JLNM has become the first district hospital in India to launch its own medical journal. “It’s a proud moment for the entire Directorate of Health. For the first time, a district hospital has taken this academic leap,” he said.
The hospital also hosted its inaugural Allergy Conference, which saw participation from leading hospitals and medical colleges across the Kashmir Valley. “This is a triple achievement for us — we released our medical journal, held postgraduate research presentations with awards, and conducted an allergy conference, all on the same day,” he noted.
On the issue of workforce shortage, particularly in paramedical staffing, Dr. Bakshi admitted that the shortfall exists across the health sector. “The government is fully aware and has taken the issue seriously. You will soon hear about major steps being taken to address it,” he assured.— (KNS)
