Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday said that CM Omar Abdullah led Government has filled in numerous vacancies in the Health Department during the past 18 months.

Talking to reporters here in South Kashmir, Minister Itoo, according to the news agency, “The government has made significant progress over the past 18 months by filling numerous vacancies in the Health Department and initiating key reforms aimed at improving service delivery.”

The Minister said that several posts have already been filled, while many more have been referred for recruitment.

She added that infrastructure gaps are being systematically addressed, with a focus on ensuring that people can access quality healthcare within their own areas instead of travelling outside for treatment.

Accompanied by MLA Pampore, Hasnain Masoodi, the Minister toured several areas including Parigam, Kakapora, and Ratnipora to review ongoing developmental works in the health sector.

During the visit, she inaugurated a digital X-ray facility and a thyroid analyzer at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Parigam in the presence of Director Health Services Kashmir Jehangir Bakshi.

These new diagnostic facilities are expected to significantly enhance early detection and treatment capabilities for the local population.

The Minister also inspected the proposed site for a 50-bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital and Yoga Training Centre in Ratnipora.

Stressing the importance of integrating traditional and modern systems of medicine, she said such institutions are essential to promote alternative healing practices alongside advanced medical care.

At Kakapora, Itoo reviewed the construction work of a 50-bedded hospital and directed concerned authorities to expedite the project to ensure timely completion. She underlined that the government remains committed to delivering quality healthcare facilities at the grassroots level.

Meanwhile, the Minister referred to the recent directive by the Supreme Court of India mandating an examination for Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) teachers within three years. “The interests of the teaching community will be safeguarded,” she said.

Itoo said that proactive steps are being taken to overcome staff shortages across departments, with a special focus on strengthening the healthcare system through sustained recruitment and infrastructure development.