Clarifies ambulance was introduced after local consultations as online users question its practicality
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, responding to questions on whether a two-wheeler ambulance would be feasible in Nagaland’s terrain, said the model had been introduced after consultations with local stakeholders. “They are much better than waiting for a four-wheel large ambulance. Immediately you have an access to at least some kind of medical facility,” she said at the press conference held today at Chumoukedima.
It may be noted that the bike- ambulance was flagged off by the FM on Thursday in Kiphire District as part of the CSR contribution by SBI.
Sitharaman clarified that the initiative was not imposed by the State Bank of India (SBI), which donated the ambulance. “It’s not SBI has imposed saying, I want to give this. It was checked up with the local authorities, it was checked up with the hospital authorities saying, if you have to somehow reach your patients who are in an emergency situation, what kind of an ambulance would work and they were suggested by the locals. It should be helpful as it was suggested by the locals,” she said.
The two-wheeler ambulance, inaugurated recently in Kiphire district, received significant public attention after videos and images began circulating on social media. The initiative was widely trolled, with many pointing out that such a model would not be practical given Nagaland’s poor road conditions.
Users questioned its safety, feasibility and what the move indicated about the state of healthcare infrastructure in the state. The online reactions spread quickly, drawing attention both within Nagaland and nationally.
RECAP | Sitharaman flags off bike ambulances, hands over Rs 84 lakh CSR aid to Kiphire Hospital
The two-wheeler ambulance is expected to serve as a first-response vehicle, enabling quicker access to basic care until a larger ambulance or hospital intervention becomes available.
The Nagaland health department has not yet clarified whether it plans to expand the model to other districts or formally incorporate it into the state’s emergency medical system. However, when asked if it would be feasible in other parts of the country, the Finance Minister responded, “Of course, wherever it is useful.”
Meanwhile, Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, added, “Useful and in demand.”
