Baramulla, Nov 10 (KNS): Minister for Health and Medical Education and Social Welfare Sakina Itoo on Tuesday inaugurated a New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chukar in Tangmarg, constructed at a cost of ?1.88 crore, and inspected the Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Sariwarpora in Pattan to review the healthcare facilities.

MLA Gulmarg Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah was present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Itoo underscored the importance of strengthening primary healthcare institutions, particularly in rural and far-flung areas, to ensure accessible and quality medical services.

She said the newly inaugurated health centre would improve access to basic healthcare for residents of Chukar and adjoining areas, reducing the need to travel long distances for medical treatment.

The minister highlighted the initiatives of the Omar Abdullah-led government, saying strengthening the healthcare sector remained a key priority, with focused efforts towards upgrading infrastructure, improving medical facilities and ensuring better service delivery, particularly in underserved areas.

She urged the concerned health authorities and medical staff to ensure effective functioning of the newly inaugurated facility, adequate availability of essential medical services and dedicated patient care.

Itoo stressed that healthcare institutions must serve people with commitment, compassion and professionalism.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

MLA Gulmarg also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the constituency. He appreciated the ongoing efforts to improve public facilities and stressed the need for continued development of essential services.

Director Health Services Kashmir Dr Nighat Yasmeen, Chief Medical Officer Baramulla Dr A G Raina and Block Medical Officer Pattan Dr Rumina Majeed, besides other officials, healthcare professionals and local residents, were present on the occasion.

Later, the minister inspected PHC Sariwarpora in Pattan and reviewed the functioning of the institution, availability of medical facilities and healthcare services being provided to patients.

She directed the concerned officials to maintain high standards of healthcare delivery, ensure adequate medical facilities and address any shortcomings affecting patient care.

Later, Itoo, accompanied by MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar, MLA Pattan Javaid Riyaz and MLA Gulmarg Peerzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, visited the residence of the medical student from Dangerpora, Sopore, who died in Bangladesh.

The minister expressed condolences to the bereaved family and conveyed her sympathies over the loss. She assured the family of the government's support and assistance during this difficult time. (KNS)