Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Critiques Civil Administration’s Absence at SKIMS Event

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah raised concerns on December 5, 2023, regarding the absence of civil administration officials at the annual function of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS). Speaking at the event in Srinagar, he highlighted the critical need for better coordination between governmental bodies, particularly at a time when the premier medical institute requires enhanced support.

During his address, Abdullah revealed that he initially considered declining the invitation due to his perception that SKIMS had fallen out of the elected government’s functional control. “When the Director SKIMS invited me, I thought I would refuse. The control of SKIMS is not in our hands, the files don’t even come to us,” he stated. Despite his reservations, he ultimately chose to attend, emphasizing his desire not to place blame on the Director or faculty for administrative deficiencies.

The Chief Minister pointed out the lack of administrative representation at the event, questioning, “Look at the audience, not a single officer from the administration is present. I don’t know why. Are they being kept away from such functions?” His comments reflect a broader concern about the disconnect between civil administration and essential health services in the region.

Abdullah noted that during his previous term, significant efforts were made to financially bolster SKIMS. He mentioned that the central government had approved access to a fund of Rs 2,000 crore at zero percent interest for the institute. However, he lamented that after Jammu and Kashmir was downgraded to a Union Territory, the region lost access to this facility, which is typically available to states.

To foster future growth, Abdullah encouraged the Director of SKIMS, Dr. Pavaiz Koul, to propose a substantial project aimed at improving patient care and expanding the institute’s services. “I will leave it to the Director to come up with a project worth around Rs 150 crore,” he remarked, adding that he could assist in securing annual support in the range of Rs 50 to 60 crore.

Despite the challenges, Abdullah commended the SKIMS faculty and staff for their commitment to maintaining high standards of patient care. He acknowledged that the institution remains a vital component of public health in Jammu and Kashmir.

The autonomy of SKIMS has been affected following its administrative control transfer to the Health and Medical Education Department. The General Administration Department issued a directive stating that all matters concerning SKIMS must be submitted for the necessary action of the Competent Authority through the Health and Medical Education Department. This communication was based on regulations established by the Ministry of Home Affairs on August 27, 2020, which outlined the administrative framework for the Union Territory.

As the event concluded, Abdullah’s remarks underscored the pressing need for enhanced collaboration between various government departments to ensure that institutions like SKIMS can operate effectively and continue to provide essential medical services to the community.