Kohima, 18 August (MTNews): Kikheto Sema, Commissioner & Secretary of Health and Family Welfare, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the officers of the Department of Health & Family Welfare for their unwavering support and cooperation during his 8-month tenure as Commissioner & Secretary of the department. Sema emphasized the collaborative efforts that led to significant achievements for the welfare of the people of Nagaland.
One standout achievement within this short timeframe was the successful implementation of the 10 Bed ICU project, valued at over Rs. 35 crore, across all 12 District Hospitals. This state-of-the-art equipment was made possible through the support of the eGov Foundation and notable individuals such as Vinod Khosla from California, USA; Nandan Nilekani, Chairman of UIDAI; and Srikanth Nadhamuni, Chairman of the 10 Bed ICU Project.
The project was supervised by the eGov Foundation, led by Bisoya Loitongbam, Director, who, along with her team, provided continuous guidance and support.
Additionally, 12 Mobile ICTC Vans for HIV & AIDS testing were distributed to District Hospitals in collaboration with the Director General of the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), Government of India. The establishment of an HIV Viral Load Lab at NHAK has overcome the challenge of sending blood samples to distant locations for testing, benefiting the people of Nagaland.
Several other achievements were also highlighted, including the declaration of “No Tobacco Zones” in all Government and Private Hospitals, Health Institutions, and Schools throughout the state, as well as the establishment of new Food Testing Laboratories in multiple districts.
The imminent launch of two new 30 Bedded Ayush Hospitals and the upcoming start of a Medical College in September 2023 were celebrated as significant milestones. Another landmark accomplishment for the state was the allocation of a substantial number of MBBS, BDS, and other medical seats, enhancing educational opportunities for aspiring medical professionals.
Sema extended his gratitude to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, the former Minister of H&FW, S Pangnyu Phom, the present Minister of H&FW, P Paiwang Konyak, and senior officers and staff of H&FW for their support. He also thanked the dedicated healthcare workers who demonstrated unwavering commitment during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sema’s tenure was marked by the determination of officers and staff who often went beyond regular working hours to ensure the success of initiatives.
As he prepares to leave the department, Sema conveyed his confidence in his successor, V Kezo, and called for continued cooperation from the department’s officers and staff to further advance the goals of healthcare and family welfare in Nagaland.