Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday visited the District Hospital, Kiphire, where she flagged off bike ambulances and handed over medical equipment worth over Rs 84 lakh under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of the State Bank of India (SBI).
The formal program was chaired by Dr Mereninla Senlem, Principal Director, Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, while Dr Watsutho Nyuthe, Medical Superintendent, presented a brief report on the hospital’s progress and challenges.
As part of the CSR contribution, SBI provided medical equipment for the Blood Bank worth Rs 5.81 lakh, additional hospital equipment worth Rs 59 lakh, and five bike ambulances for Primary Health Centres in Kiphire District worth Rs 20 lakh.
The event was attended by SBI Deputy Managing Director Rajesh Kumar, Nagaland Minister of Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along, and officials from the District Administration.
During her address, Sitharaman thanked the State Government, District Administration, and hospital staff for their warm reception. She said her visit aimed to strengthen healthcare services in Kiphire through CSR interventions. Interacting with hospital staff, she learned about the shortage of medical personnel and the challenges of operating in a district with only one government hospital and no private healthcare facilities.
Expressing concern for the Aspirational District, Sitharaman encouraged both state and district leaders to continue their efforts for Kiphire’s development.
Later in the evening, a colorful cultural program was held at the 14th NAP (IR) Battalion, Kiphire.
In honor of the Union Finance Minister’s visit, a public program will be held on November 14 at Public Ground, Kiphire. She will depart for Kohima later the same day.