Srinagar, June 15 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir’s Health Minister, Sakina Itoo, on Saturday said the government has made full preparations to ensure proper medical arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.

She said that there is no shortage of doctors and all health facilities have been strengthened to meet any medical needs of the pilgrims.

Speaking to reporters after reviewing the health infrastructure at Baltal base camp, the Minister said the main focus is to make sure that the pilgrims do not face any difficulties during their journey.

“I came here today to review the medical arrangements, how many doctors are available, how many more are to come from outside, what kind of medicines are stocked, how many camps and ambulances are ready, everything has been checked,” she said.

She was accompanied by the District Development Commissioner Jatin Kishore, heads of various health departments, and the local MLA during the visit.

“Every camp has been provided with more doctors than required. The hospitals designated for the yatra already have sufficient staff and those gaps that existed earlier have been filled,” she added.

Sakina said that significant improvements have been made in the healthcare system since the formation of the current government.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“Since the day this government was formed under the leadership of Omar Abdullah, we received appointment orders for 600 doctors. These doctors have been sent to remote areas,” she said.

Acknowledging that there are still a few challenges, especially related to consultants, Sakina said that have many MBBS doctors, but the shortage is mainly of consultants because some of them go for higher studies or PG.
"We, however have referred the matter to the board and are working to fill these gaps,” the Minister added.

She also said that every year around 250 to 600 MBBS graduates pass out and many come from outside. The government is making efforts to make sure they are placed where needed.
“The department has worked hard, and though there is still room for improvement, we have done a lot already,” she added.

Sakina further said that this year, every necessary arrangement has been made to provide a safe and smooth Yatra experience. “This is the government's effort, no pilgrim should suffer for lack of medical help. All facilities are in place,” she added.(KNS)