Centre assures support for AIIMS-like institute, NIMSR upgrade and new healthcare infrastructure projects in Nagaland state
Share
DIMAPUR — The Centre has assured support for setting up an AIIMS-like institute in Nagaland and upgrading the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (NIMSR), Kohima, into a super-specialty institute, in what could mark a major expansion of the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
The assurance was given by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda during a meeting with Nagaland Minister for Health and Family Welfare P Paiwang Konyak at the former’s official residence in New Delhi on May 27.
According to an official statement, the state government proposed establishment of a Greenfield Medical College, described as an AIIMS institute, at Naga Ki City in Chümoukedima district to address gaps in tertiary healthcare, medical education and specialist services in Nagaland.
Paiwang said that the proposed institute would cater not only to Nagaland but also neighbouring states, while promoting medical tourism under the government of India’s Act East Policy.
The minister also sought upgradation of NIMSR under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), stating that the state intends to introduce postgraduate courses before the first batch of MBBS students graduates in 2028.
Also read: Nagaland health claims row: HC orders insurer to explain 4,743 pending cases
Kohima pushes ahead with Teupuiki water project, Khonoma treatment plant plan reviewed
Paiwang further requested the Centre to establish a State Cancer Institute under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), citing the growing incidence of cancer in Nagaland.
He said that such an institute was necessary to provide advanced oncology services, reduce referrals outside the state, and strengthen cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and palliative care.
The minister also urged the Centre to upgrade the State Mental Health Institute into a Centre of Excellence under the National Mental Health Programme.
In addition, he sought approval for a State Allied Health Professional Institute in Kohima to strengthen allied healthcare education and augment skilled healthcare manpower in the state.
Paiwang further proposed establishment of accident and trauma centres in the remaining 12 districts of Nagaland to improve access to emergency and trauma care services.
He also appealed for continuation of the PM-ABHIM scheme for strengthening public health infrastructure in the state.