CiTY BARN, an innovative youth health initiative of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), was formally launched in Mokokchung on June 29 with the aim of providing young people with health information, counselling and support services in a safe and confidential environment.
The centre was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS. Located at I.M. Road, Arkong Ward, near SBI Bazaar Branch, above NETTEC Computers, CiTY BARN Mokokchung is the fifth such centre in Nagaland after Kohima, Dimapur, Wokha and Tuensang. Plans are also underway to establish another centre in Peren district.
The initiative is being implemented by Care & Support Society (C&SS) under NSACS and seeks to reach young people below the age of 24. NSACS introduced the initiative in collaboration with Adolescent Friendly Health Centres (AFHCs) in response to the increasing trend of HIV-positive cases among young people in the state.
Addressing the launch programme, Verma described CiTY BARN as a unique innovation of the Government of Nagaland and said Mokokchung was fortunate to have such a facility. He noted that the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) has shown interest in the model and is exploring its replication in other parts of the country.
Appreciating C&SS for implementing the initiative, he said the organisation has been instrumental in the health sector for many years and possesses the experience and expertise required to manage the project.
Verma said the centre would play an important role in preventive healthcare. While the medical sector often focuses on treatment, he stressed that prevention is equally important in reducing health complications and their social impact.
He also highlighted the need to create awareness among young people about sanitation, personal hygiene and healthy practices, saying that a healthy population is essential for achieving broader developmental goals. He further emphasised the importance of local institutions in providing counselling and guidance, noting that centres like CiTY BARN can offer localised support for young people dealing with personal, behavioural and health-related concerns.
Chief Medical Officer, Mokokchung, Dr Tiasunep, congratulated Care & Support Society and acknowledged its long association with the district and cooperation with the Medical Department. He said NACO’s recognition of the organisation reflected its dedication and experience and urged those involved in the project to work with sincerity, commitment and empathy.
Delivering the “About Us” presentation, Limatongzuk Jamir, Programme Officer of C&SS, said the centre was conceptualised by NSACS to address public health challenges, particularly rising HIV infections among young people. He said the youth-friendly facility aims to provide accurate information, counselling and support without fear of stigma.
The centre will also address mental health, substance and tobacco use, sexual and reproductive health, life skills and overall well-being. Services include counselling, health screenings, linkages to specialised healthcare facilities and thematic sessions on health and career development.