Minister for Health & Medical Education, Bali Bhagat today said that the Government is committed to augment Health Services in all regions of the State and various initiatives are underway in this regard.He said this while laying foundation of Modern PHC at village Barwal of District Kathua. The work will be executed by PWD(R&B) Department of Kathua Division at an estimated cost of Rs. 1 Crore & 87 Lakhs. MLA Kathua, Rajiv Jasrotia was also present on the occasion and At the outset, the minister said that Foundation of GMC at Kathua has also been laid and the work on same will begin soon. He said that shortage of Doctors is the main problem due to which the performance of the department gets effected but soon 437 doctors will join to provide round the clock services to the patients at various health institutions which are located at rural, hilly and far flung areas.He also mentioned that there is a provision of free medicines for patients and to provide these medicines, procurement is done through e-tendering. He further added that not only free medicines but ultra-medical care will also be provided to the patients through qualified doctors and dedicated para-medical staff.The minister announced that a Medical University will soon be established in J&K.While addressing the gathering, the MLA said that the PHC will benefit not only Barwal but several other villages located in the vicinity of this village. He added that the present dispensation is leaving no stone unturned to strengthen the medical infra across the length and breadth of J&K.He also demanded sufficient Doctors for Kathua constituency besides enough para-medic staff. He also raised the demand for one Dental chair for Nagri block.Director Health Services Jammu Dr. Gurjit Singh, ACR Jatinder Mishra, CMO Dr. Ashok Choudhary, XEN PWD Er. D K Rampal, BMO and prominent citizen of village Barwal were present on the occasion.