Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir, July 16, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated Project 13 13 at National Hospital in Jammu, marking a significant milestone in providing affordable and quality healthcare tailored for women in Jammu and Kashmir. The pioneering initiative, aimed at making surgical interventions accessible, allows women to undergo surgeries for as low as ₹13,000, easing the burden on public healthcare facilities and promoting inclusivity in medical services.Addressing a public gathering at the event, Chief Minister Abdullah commended National Hospital’s efforts in advancing accessible healthcare, stating, “This initiative, if sustained, will significantly reduce the pressure on government hospitals. I, along with Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, and others, traveled from Srinagar to support this transformative program.” He emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare as a foundational pillar of development, alongside education, to ensure progress and prosperity for the Union Territory.
Project 13 13 is designed to offer cost-effective surgical care, addressing critical healthcare needs for women while reducing dependency on overcrowded public hospitals. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of upgrading medical infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, as highlighted by Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, who was also present at the inauguration. “Our aim is to provide world-class healthcare through our Government Medical Colleges and associated hospitals, with advanced diagnostic and treatment services like MRI facilities and Cath Labs,” Itoo said, underscoring the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance medical care facilities.
The Chief Minister’s visit to National Hospital included interactions with hospital staff and administration, where he lauded their dedication to making healthcare inclusive and affordable. The initiative is expected to set a precedent for public-private partnerships in healthcare, with National Hospital leading the charge in offering subsidised services to women from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The launch of Project 13 13 comes on the heels of other healthcare advancements under Abdullah’s leadership, including the recent inauguration of a 120-bedded state-of-the-art block at the Bone & Joint Hospital in Srinagar. This reflects the government’s broader commitment to bolstering healthcare infrastructure across urban and rural areas. The Chief Minister reiterated that “no amount of infrastructure development—be it roads or power projects—can substitute for quality healthcare and education,” emphasising the need for robust hospitals to ensure societal progress.
National Hospital’s initiative is poised to empower women by providing affordable access to essential surgical procedures, fostering a healthier and more equitable society. The project is expected to inspire similar efforts across Jammu and Kashmir, with the government pledging continued support for initiatives that prioritise public welfare.
