Jahangeer Ganaie
Kulgam, Oct 19: The people of Jammu and Kashmir have faced numerous hardships over the past decade, and the government led by Omar Abdullah is dedicated to alleviating these struggles, said the Minister for Health, Medical Education, Education and Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo.
In an exclusive interview, Itoo said the last ten years have been particularly challenging for the people of J&K, who have suffered a lot. However, she expressed optimism that with the election of a new government, efforts will be made to lift the population out of their difficulties.
“The National Conference (NC) government is committed to implementing measures that will uplift socio-economic conditions, enhance access to quality healthcare and education and ensure comprehensive social welfare,” Itoo said.
When asked about the current status of statehood, the minister reassured that it will be restored soon. “It is a genuine demand of the people,” she said. “Our demands are for public welfare. Whatever was done after 2019 must be reversed; statehood is our right. J&K was once a full state, but it was downgraded to a Union Territory. We are hopeful for its restoration.”
Regarding the recent resolution for statehood, as opposed to Articles 370 and 35A, Sakina said that patience is needed as the government has only recently been formed. “Commitments made will be fulfilled in due time,” she assured.
Itoo said the government will address the issue of vacancies within the health department and the need for infrastructure upgrades. “Having been a doctor myself, I am eager to work for the welfare of the people. We aim to fill vacancies for doctors and paramedics, upgrade health facilities and improve access to services like X-rays throughout J&K,” she said.
Addressing the liabilities created by the previous Lieutenant Governor-led government across various departments, Itoo said that substantial liabilities have emerged, particularly in the social welfare and health sectors. “Honorariums are not being disbursed on time, and similar issues exist in other schemes,” she said, adding, “We will review these matters and address them with the relevant authorities.”
Commenting on the incomplete Sub-District Hospital (SDH) building in her native area, the health minister acknowledged the poor condition of hospitals across J&K, where multiple patients are often accommodated on a single bed. “We are committed to upgrading health infrastructure, especially in remote areas that have been underserved,” she added.
“There are challenges ahead, but we will work diligently to overcome them so that the people of J&K no longer have to suffer,” Sakina said, adding, “We will do everything within our power and will communicate any limitations to the public.”
Itoo expressed gratitude to the people of the D H Pora constituency for their support, saying, “They made me feel the absence of my father less acutely. I want to thank the people of J&K for giving a full mandate to the NC, which was crucial at this time. I assure them that all commitments made will be honoured.”
