SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of various developmental projects being executed by the Education, Health and Social Welfare departments across Jammu and Kashmir.
During the meeting, the Minister conducted a detailed department-wise review and assessed project monitoring mechanisms, fund utilisation and inter-departmental coordination to ensure effective implementation of developmental initiatives across the Union Territory.
Reviewing projects under the Education Department, Sakeena Itoo assessed progress on construction and upgradation of school buildings, establishment of smart classrooms, augmentation of laboratory and library facilities and improvement of basic amenities in educational institutions.
She directed officers to ensure quality infrastructure in schools and colleges so that students receive a better and more conducive learning environment.
The Minister emphasized the importance of modern educational facilities in rural and far-flung areas and instructed officials to expedite all pending works on priority.
“Special focus should be laid on enhancing digital learning infrastructure and ensuring adequate basic facilities in educational institutions,” she said.
While reviewing Health Department initiatives, the Minister took stock of ongoing works related to hospital infrastructure, upgradation of medical facilities and strengthening of healthcare delivery systems.
She stressed the need for accessible and affordable healthcare services, particularly for people living in remote and underserved areas.
The Minister directed the concerned authorities to accelerate the pace of healthcare projects and ensure availability of essential medical equipment, medicines and manpower at all health institutions.
She also instructed officials to constitute a committee for assessing the status of lifts, oxygen plants, public utilities and other facilities in hospitals and submit its report within a week.
Reviewing the social welfare sector, Sakeena Itoo directed officials to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries are covered under different welfare schemes and called for awareness drives to inform people about government initiatives aimed at their welfare and empowerment.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment towards inclusive and equitable development, the Minister said sustained efforts are being made to strengthen public service delivery and create robust infrastructure in these key sectors across Jammu and Kashmir.
She stressed the importance of timely completion of all projects so that benefits reach the people without delay.
The Minister urged officers to work with dedication, maintain transparency and ensure that all developmental works are completed within stipulated timelines.
She also instructed officials to consult local MLAs while planning developmental projects in their respective constituencies and directed departments to execute all projects and works announced in the Budget within the prescribed time frame.
The meeting was attended by Directors Finance and Planning of the Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education departments, senior officers and other concerned officials.
