Jammu, Aug 12: Health and Medical Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday inaugurated key healthcare and academic infrastructure projects at SMGS Hospital, Shalamar, and Chest Diseases Hospital, Bakshi Nagar, aimed at strengthening medical services and facilities in Jammu.

At SMGS Hospital, the Minister inaugurated a 160-slice CT Scan machine installed at a cost of ₹8.30 crore. The facility is expected to significantly improve diagnostic services and enable timely investigations for patients.
Sakeena said the new CT scanner would particularly benefit patients who cannot afford diagnostic services at private hospitals. It would also help reduce pressure on other healthcare institutions and minimise unnecessary referrals.
She said the facility had been a long-standing demand of residents of Jammu and adjoining areas, which was taken up following directions from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
The Minister said an MRI machine has also been sanctioned for SMGS Hospital and is expected to be installed within the next two to three months.
She directed hospital authorities to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene across the premises for the convenience and safety of patients and attendants.
At Chest Diseases Hospital, Bakshi Nagar, Sakeena inaugurated a new Academic Complex, completed at a cost of ₹8.93 crore. The facility is expected to strengthen the academic infrastructure supporting medical education and training.
The Minister said the new projects reflected the Government's commitment to expanding modern healthcare infrastructure and improving patient-centric services across Jammu and Kashmir.
MLAs Arvind Gupta and Yudhvir Sethi accompanied the Minister during the visits and highlighted the importance of addressing pending healthcare requirements in Jammu.
Principal GMC Jammu Dr Ashutosh Gupta briefed the Minister on infrastructure development and patient-care services at GMC Jammu and its associated hospitals through a presentation.
Sakeena also appreciated GMC Jammu's 105th national ranking, attributing the achievement to the dedicated efforts of its doctors and staff. She stressed the need for doctors and paramedical personnel to maintain accountability and ensure quality patient care.
The Minister further urged the media to verify facts before highlighting complaints concerning patients and hospitals, cautioning that unverified information could create misleading narratives and adversely affect the reputation of healthcare professionals and institutions.
She reiterated that the Government would continue to invest in modern medical infrastructure, diagnostics and healthcare facilities to ensure accessible, efficient and quality services for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.