Nagaland’s doctor-population ratio of 1:4,056—far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended standard of 1:1,000 and India’s benchmark of 1:2,500—has drawn serious concern. The disparity was spotlighted during the annual conference of the Nagaland In-Service Doctors Association (NIDA) held at Naithu Resort, Chümoukedima, on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Sukhato A Sema, MLA, described healthcare as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of economic and social development. Despite the efforts of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, challenges persist in providing equitable and comprehensive healthcare.
Dr Sukhato underscored Nagaland’s poor performance in comparison to neighboring Arunachal Pradesh, which has achieved a doctor-population ratio of 1:2,417. He advocated for the equitable distribution of medical personnel, particularly in district hospitals, which should ideally have at least 29 doctors per 100 beds.
The MLA called for immediate revisions to service rules and pay scales for medical professionals, aligning them with other services. He highlighted disparities in salaries, noting that doctors once earned more than IAS officers but now lag behind. Dr Sukhato also emphasized improving amenities for healthcare workers, such as accommodations and basic facilities.
Proposing a separate recruitment policy for the medical sector, akin to that in the Higher Education Department, he urged NIDA to address the needs of MBBS graduates, postgraduates, and specialists. He pointed out the presence of 381 private practitioners in Dimapur, including young specialists, and advocated for their integration into medical colleges and hospitals to curb brain drain.
Dr Sukhato also stressed the need for legal protections for medical professionals, vigilance in public-private partnerships, and adherence to ethical practices, urging all to uphold the Hippocratic Oath.
The MLA praised Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s commitment to improving healthcare in Nagaland. He expressed optimism that Rio’s leadership would enable NIDA to secure better healthcare facilities and greater recognition for medical professionals.
In his keynote address, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Dimapur, Dr Keveduyi, described the conference as a milestone in NIDA’s journey since its founding in 2006. He urged members to champion underserved communities, advocate for equitable policies, and prioritize public health infrastructure improvements.
The event also introduced NIDA’s newly elected executive members:
President: Dr Thomas Keppen
Vice President: Dr K Akaho Sema
General Secretary: Dr Visietsolie Vüprü
Joint Secretary: Dr Zaiwang Zeliang
Treasurer: Dr S Yingnei Konyak
Information & Publicity Secretary: Dr L Wobemo Lotha