SRINAGAR: The 145-year-old Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial (JLNM) Hospital in Srinagar is poised to be transformed into a full-fledged apex super speciality institute under the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), Director Dr Jehangir Bakshi announced on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters during a landmark event at the hospital, Dr Bakshi said, “JLNM Hospital has been serving people for over a century, and we are now focused on elevating it to apex institute status. Soon, high-tech medical equipment including MRI and allergy testing machines will be installed to enhance patient services.”
The statement was made during a triple milestone event that included the launch of JLNM’s own medical journal — a first for any district hospital in India — as well as its inaugural Allergy Conference and a postgraduate research presentation and award ceremony.
“This is an extraordinary day in the history of JLNM,” Dr Bakshi said. “The hospital has not only launched a journal, but has also hosted an academic conference and honoured young clinical researchers. It’s a proud moment for the Directorate.”
The conference was attended by Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo, who commended the hospital’s clinical and academic leadership. Also present were MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Medical Superintendent Dr Mohammad Tariq Jaan, Deputy MS Dr Asifa Jaan, Allergy Specialist Dr Taha Ashraf, and Media Cell Incharge Aafaq Bashir.
Itoo, while addressing the gathering, praised JLNM’s doctors and paramedical staff for their continued dedication. “JLNM Hospital is not only a heritage institution but also a model for public healthcare advancement in the region,” she said. “The government remains committed to equipping it with the best facilities for patients.”
Dr Bakshi also acknowledged the ongoing staff shortage in paramedical categories across the health sector. “The shortage is real, but the government is taking extraordinary steps to address it. You will hear about new recruitments and staffing measures very soon,” he assured.
The Allergy Conference brought together specialists from across Kashmir’s top hospitals and medical colleges to explore emerging trends in allergy and immunology. The event further positioned JLNM as a hub for medical research and professional collaboration in the valley.
Hospital administrators expressed gratitude to Minister Sakina Itoo for facilitating key infrastructural upgrades and ensuring new buildings are operational for patient care. With the launch of academic initiatives and acquisition of modern medical equipment underway, JLNM Hospital is set to emerge as one of the valley’s leading tertiary care institutions. (With KNS Inputs)
