Kulgam | September 24, 2025 : Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health, Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education Sakina Itoo on Wednesday reiterated the Omar Abdullah-led government’s resolve to strengthen healthcare and safeguard the region’s horticulture sector while ensuring development reaches people at the grassroots.
Inaugurating a newly constructed health building worth ₹2.71 crore at Aravani village, Itoo said:
“From new hospitals to MRI and cath labs, our focus is on improving patient care and providing facilities at people’s doorsteps.”
Responding to remarks by former CM Mehbooba Mufti, who accused the government of having “broken the back” of fruit growers, Itoo stressed that horticulture remains the backbone of Kashmir’s economy.
“Any difficulties faced by growers today are the result of years of neglect and flawed policies by previous administrations. We are fully committed to protecting and strengthening this vital sector.”
The Minister also raised concerns over substandard development works carried out in recent years, noting that even light rainfall causes damage to roads and bunds. She called for vigilance and inquiry into works executed after 2018, to ensure accountability.
“The purpose of this government is clear — to serve the people with sincerity and reduce their problems,” Itoo said.
The inauguration underscores the administration’s dual focus: bolstering healthcare delivery and safeguarding horticulture, both critical pillars of Kashmir’s socio-economic fabric.
