DIMAPUR — Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Nagaland, S Supongmeren Jamir, on Friday donated community ambulances to six districts in Nagaland, funded by the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) 2024-2025.
The ambulances were distributed to Kohima, Phek, Wokha, Zunheboto, Tseminyu, and Peren districts, with each district's respective tribal hoho taking custody of the vehicle. The Angami People’s Organisation, Chakhesang Peoples’ Organisation, Lotha Hoho, Sumi Hoho, Rengma Hoho, and Zeliangrong Baudi Nagaland will manage and maintain the ambulances.
During the distribution event at Neo Motors, Chümoukedima, Jamir stated that this is the first batch of ambulances, and the remaining districts, including the newly formed Meluri district, will receive their ambulances in subsequent batches.
“The function of the ambulance will be upon the hohos to decide,” he said, adding that he has given independent custody to the tribal hohos, allowing them to determine the terms and conditions for their use.
The MP emphasised the role of tribal hohos as the most effective way to serve the people, stating that they are created for the welfare of the community and provide selfless service. Moreover, the hohos have the ability to connect with people in remote areas who lack access to affordable ambulance services, and placing the ambulances under their management would be the most beneficial approach, he said.
He also called upon all elected representatives to work together to provide essential facilities for the people. While acknowledging that he cannot personally interact with everyone at the grassroots level, Jamir expressed confidence that this service would help the people. He urged the leaders to identify and assist those in need without any bias.
“I have great aspiration and hope to serve the people, and it is transmitting to all the hohos; so hohos will also do the best for the people,” he said.
Addressing other pressing issues in the state, Jamir emphasised the need to address the problem of educated unemployment at the grassroots level. He pledged to explore employment opportunities for educated youth in various sectors, working in collaboration with the state government. He also encouraged the general public to consider pursuing their talents in agriculture or crafts.
He further said that MPLADs funding is limited but the state has more avenues. He assured the public that he would make every effort to coordinate with the state government to secure necessary facilities for those in need.
Representatives from the recipient districts expressed their gratitude to the MP for donating the community ambulances.