The historic Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial (JLNM) Hospital, a 145-year-old institution located in the heart of Srinagar, is on a track to become a Super Speciality hospital under the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), Director Dr. Jehangir Bakshi said on Saturday.
Speaking to the reporters at JLNM, Dr. Bakshi said that every year the government is committed to strengthening healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir, and JLNM is a clear example of that progress.
“The hospital is expanding every year, with new departments, advanced equipment, and modern facilities being added. This year too, the momentum continues,” he said.
Highlighting future upgrades, Dr. Bakshi revealed that an MRI machine will be installed soon at JLNM, alongside the addition of high-tech allergy testing machines. “These additions will further JLNM’s transformation into a fully-fledged super speciality hospital. We are also installing state-of-the-art machinery to ensure advanced diagnostics and treatment,” he added.
Dr. Bakshi while acknowledging the challenges said that there remains a shortage of doctors and, more critically, paramedics in hospitals and medical colleges across the region. “The government has taken the matter seriously and extraordinary steps are being taken to bridge the gaps,” he said.
The event also marked a triple milestone celebration for JLNM Hospital, which hosted a conference on allergy and immunology attended by prominent figures including Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo and MLA Zadibal Tanveer Sadiq.
The conference gathered top allergy experts and researchers and aimed to explore new frontiers in the field.
During the event, Minister Sakina Itoo officially launched JLNM’s annual general and awards ceremony. Several postgraduate researchers were felicitated for their commendable contributions in clinical science and research.
In her address, Minister Itoo praised the hospital’s medical staff for their unwavering commitment. “JLNM Hospital holds historical and emotional value for Kashmiris. Its transformation into a leading tertiary care center reflects the dedication of the doctors and management,” she said.
She also expressed appreciation for the hospital administration, including Medical Superintendent Dr. Mohammad Tariq Jaan, Allergy Specialist Dr. Taha Ashraf, Deputy MS Dr. Asifa Jaan, and Media Cell Incharge Aafaq Bashir, for their continued efforts in improving healthcare delivery.
The hospital, which has witnessed a steady evolution over the decades, is now being revived with modern infrastructure and a growing focus on specialty care, marking a new era for public health in the Kashmir Valley—(KNO)
