CRM flags major gaps in Nagaland’s health infrastructure

NHM review finds poor connectivity, irrational postings and salary delays; state urged to strengthen HR policy and rural health access

The 17th Common Review Mission (CRM) of the National Health Mission (NHM) has praised Nagaland’s strong community participation in healthcare but flagged major concerns over infrastructure, manpower deployment, and financial delays affecting service delivery across the state.

At the debriefing held on November 7 at Hotel Vivor, Kohima, Dr. Keveduyi Theyo, Mission Director, NHM Nagaland, said the department  ”welcomes the CRM team’s findings and recommendations”  and will work to address the shortcomings.

During its six-day review, the CRM team visited 25 health facilities across Mon and Zunheboto districts, including district hospitals. The team found that while community engagement remained a standout strength, infrastructure gaps and human resource mismanagement continued to undermine healthcare outcomes.

Dr Sushil Kumar Vimal, Deputy Commissioner, National Urban Health Mission Division, MoHFW, New Delhi, noted: ”The state has adequate health services; however, lack of infrastructure remains one of the biggest challenges.” He added that despite ”difficult geographical terrain, poor roads, and limited connectivity,” healthcare workers had shown commendable commitment in delivering services.

The CRM report pointed to “irrational posting of human resources,” delays in salary release due to late fund receipts from the Ministry, and a lack of willingness among health workers to serve in interior areas. The team also called for:

· A comprehensive HR policy and incentives for difficult postings
· More training for paramedical staff
· Reduction of out-of-pocket expenditure for patients
· Improved drug storage and supply mechanisms

The report, however, acknowledged several strengths — motivated healthcare workers, good bio-medical waste management, CMHIS coverage for those outside PMJAY, and innovations like the “Cough Against TB” app and solar-powered health units.

Officials respond
Anoop Khinchi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, said the CRM’s findings should become a ”standard operating framework for all districts.” He stressed that the state must ”focus on capacity building of manpower” and ensure rational HR placement while upholding National Quality Assurance Standards.

Dr Mereninla Senlem, Principal Director, Health & Family Welfare, said the CRM’s feedback will ”serve as guidelines to further strengthen health delivery and improve implementation of all programs.”

The CRM is an annual independent review mechanism of the NHM to assess implementation, identify gaps, and recommend measures for systemic strengthening and better access to quality healthcare.

MT