In a significant boost to emergency healthcare services in Nagaland, the IDAN–Toyota CSR Initiative Asset Handing over Ceremony was held on 12th February 2026 at Zone Niathu by The Park, Chumoukedima. The programme marked the formal handing over of assets and the flagging off of Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances.
During the programme, Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio as a special guest in his address, lauded Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) and Toyota for their collaborative effort and emphasized that the deployment of ALS ambulances would greatly enhance emergency response and save lives across the state. The Chief Minister noted that over the past three years, the Toyota CSR partners have consistently contributed across various sectors including youth development, sports, and emergency support. He further acknowledged their generosity in providing not only vehicles but also premium assets for public service, calling it a reflection of their commitment and efficiency.
Highlighting Nagaland’s long-standing friendship with Japan, Dr. Rio recalled the deep cultural ties and mutual cooperation that have evolved over the years. He mentioned that this relationship was formally inaugurated during the Forest Festival in December 2024 by visiting dignitary Kenji Bono. The Chief Minister also acknowledged Suzuki Hiroshi for promoting peace and remembrance of Japan’s suffering during the Second World War. He informed that the State Government initiated a Peace Memorial Newspaper in honour of former soldiers, inaugurated by Yuki Bono, and jointly curated with Suzuki. The publication, titled Make for Info Park People, has received widespread appreciation.
Referring to the Eco Park, the Chief Minister said it stands today as a symbol of cooperation, featuring replicas of Japanese houses, a watchtower, and landscaped surroundings that have drawn a positive public response. He further highlighted the introduction of Japanese language studies at Nagaland University, supported by teachers funded by the Japanese Government, adding that many Naga youth are now employed in Japan, strengthening people-to-people ties.
The Chief Minister stated that the partnership has expanded beyond cultural exchange to education, IT, and development sectors. Reflecting on the State’s progress, he said Nagaland’s literacy rate has risen from 22 percent at Statehood in 1962 to 96 percent today, among the highest in the country, attributing this achievement to sustained collaboration and commitment.
He emphasized that CSR initiatives play a vital role in reaching underserved communities and expressed hope that the assets handed over would be utilized effectively and serve as benchmarks for future development. Drawing inspiration from Japan’s education system, the Chief Minister said collective responsibility among teachers, students, and communities offers valuable lessons for human development.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister thanked all partners for standing with the Government and people of Nagaland and expressed optimism for stronger collaboration and new achievements in the years ahead.
Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home & Border Affairs, Y. Patton, speaking at the Asset Handing over Ceremony expressed appreciation to Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited for its meaningful collaboration with the Government of Nagaland under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio through IDAN. He stated that the initiative would save time, improve services and directly benefit citizens. He also placed on record his appreciation to IDAN and its Chairman Abu Metha for providing leadership, coordination and direction, noting that IDAN has effectively fulfilled its mandate of building impactful partnerships.
The Deputy Chief Minister informed that the project covers six districts—Kohima, Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Tseminyu and Zunheboto. Under the healthcare component, Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances were provided to four healthcare centres along with critical medical and non-medical equipment across 11 institutions. The education component supported two government schools as pilot projects with furniture, sports equipment and kitchen items to enhance learning environments.
Patton emphasized that the handed-over assets are public assets meant for daily service and must be maintained properly and utilized judiciously by beneficiary departments and institutions. He also highlighted the strength of collaboration among Toyota, IDAN and concerned line departments, which ensured smooth coordination from planning to execution.
While acknowledging the progress achieved, the Deputy Chief Minister noted that many remote areas still require support and assured that efforts would continue to expand such initiatives to ensure no region is left behind.
He concluded by thanking Toyota Kirloskar Motor, IDAN, and officials from the Health & Family Welfare and School Education Departments, expressing hope that the initiative would mark the beginning of stronger services, better facilities and improved outcomes for the people of Nagaland.
A presentation and speech were delivered by Vikram Gulati, Executive Vice President & Country Head – Corporate Affairs & Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, who outlined Toyota’s commitment to community welfare through its CSR initiatives.
The event began with opening remarks by Chairman, IDAN and Advisor to the Chief Minister, Abu Metha. The ceremony concluded with the formal asset handing over and flagging off of ALS ambulances, symbolizing a major step forward in improving Nagaland’s healthcare infrastructure through corporate social responsibility and government partnership.

(Limatoshi, IA Chumoukedima)