Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today conducted extensive tour of Haveli Constituency of Poonch district and inaugurated several public infrastructure projects besides laying foundation stone for multiple developmental projects.

During the visit, the Minister inaugurated Outpatient Department (OPD) block at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Mandi and also laid foundation stone for Dialysis Unit at the hospital.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Health Minister said that the operationalization of OPD at SDH Mandi is a critical step in bolstering healthcare facilities in this remote area. She added that this OPD block, equipped with modern diagnostic and consultation facilities, is expected to ease the patient load on the existing infrastructure and enhance service delivery for residents of Mandi and adjacent areas.

“This new OPD block is a testament to our commitment towards improving the healthcare delivery in underserved regions. Timely and accessible medical care is not a luxury but a necessity and our government will ensure that no one is left behind”, the Minister stated.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to grassroots level development, the Minister said that the Omar Abdullah led government is focusing on strengthening grassroots development and improving public health infrastructure across J&K. She added that Dialysis facilities are being established at all Sub District Hospitals of J&K so that public get better healthcare facilities near their vicinities.

Later, the Minister laid foundation stone for Government Degree College Mandi.

Addressing a mammoth gathering after inauguration, the Minister highlighted that with the efforts of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the long pending demand of the public has been fulfilled. She expressed gratitude to Chief Minister for timely release of funds which will lead to timely construction of college.

The Minister further said that the College will lead to significant development in the field of higher education in this region. She also praised the MLA Haveli, Ajaz Ahmed Jan and Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal for resolving the land dispute issue of GDC Mandi.

During the visit, the Minister also interacted with the locals and took stock of their genuine issues and grievances. She received feedback on several ongoing projects and also various social sector schemes.

While interacting with the locals, the Minister said, “Our aim is to ensure inclusive growth of J&K, where development reaches the last mile,”. She assured the public delegations that their genuine issues will be addressed promptly.

MLA Haveli, Ajaz Ahmed Jan; Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal; Director Social Welfare Jammu; Director Health Services Jammu; Director School Education Jammu; Director Colleges; other senior officers of district administration and locals were also present on the occasions.