Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences & Research (NIMSR) was inaugurated by Union Minister, H&FW, and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya at Medical College Campus, Kohima on 14th October 2023.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, acknowledged Nagaland's enormous potential for development, highlighting the abundance of resources within the state. He emphasized Prime Minister Modi's call to focus on the development of the North East region, particularly in the healthcare sector, and reminded of the five commitments, Panch Pran, made by the Prime Minister at the Red Ford.

During his visit to Nagaland, which marked his second time in the state, Dr. Mandaviya revealed that the nation's MBBS seats have been doubled in a short period, reflecting a commitment to expanding healthcare education and services. Dr Mandaviya said “NIMSR is not just a medical college, it is also a research institute. It will not only fulfill the
purpose of imparting medical education but will also address the health issues of the Naga people.”

Dr. Mandaviya conveyed his eagerness to experience the vibrant culture of Nagaland, expressing his desire to visit the state with his family. He specifically mentioned the much-celebrated Hornbill Festival held in Kisama, where various tribes converge to showcase their diverse and beautiful traditions.

In line with Prime Minister Modi's vision for the medical sector to go global, Dr. Mandaviya shared that Japanese language courses are being introduced in Assam Medical Colleges to prepare medical professionals for service in Japan, and shared similar plans for such courses in Nagaland.

Dr. Mandaviya underscored that in India, healthcare is not a business or commerce but a service to others. He cited the example of providing Hydroxychloroquine to other countries during the COVID-19 pandemic as a testament to India's commitment to humanitarian service. He also emphasized the country's dedication to developing cheap and affordable quality medicines for all.

The Union Minister spoke about the potential for medical tourism in Nagaland, where individuals can seek treatment while also enjoying the beauty of the region.

Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio acknowledged the Prime Minister of India for his relentless support in promoting infrastructure projects in the State, the officers and staff of the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, NIMSR team, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the contractors, all the Landowners, and other line departments which helped in the success of accomplishing in the formation of the Institute.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that the development of the North East would bring a huge contribution to the Country and that this is the beginning of a new journey to better healthcare in the State and the North East. He hoped that the institute would prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of patients by focusing on patient-centered care. Medical institutes often have partnerships with other medical institutions, research organizations, and industry stakeholders. This collaboration allows for knowledge sharing, access to specialized resources, and the ability to offer comprehensive healthcare solutions.

Minister, H&FW, Paiwang Konyak mentioned that with the inauguration of this college, the healthcare delivery system in the state will be enhanced, by offering quality education to medical professionals, conducting research, and providing specialized care to patients. The college will also provide a platform for medical research facilities and capacity building besides medical education.

Today, Nagaland has a ratio of 5386 persons per doctor, which is one of the lowest in the country and as of date, there is an acute shortage of doctors. Nonetheless, Paiwang said that he is optimistic that a substantial number of MBBS seats can be increased in the coming years, making affordable medical education available and mitigating the shortage of doctors in the state and country as well.
Paiwang further mentioned that the inauguration of this college is the fulfillment of the dream of establishing a Medical College in Nagaland which began during 2013-2014 when the state submitted a DPR under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of “Establishment of New Medical Colleges” attached with the existing District/Referral Hospital. With the approval of the National Medical Council, formal classes commenced on 1st September 2023 with the first batch of 100 students, and in the coming years, he envisioned Nagaland as an important destination for Medical Tourism offering quality health care, combined with the natural beauty of the State.

Director cum Dean, NIMSR, Dr. Soumya Chakraborty said that the active journey of NIMSR has begun with 100 MBBS students from Nagaland and other states. NIMSR aspires to be a center of excellence in academics, research innovations, and patient care services by producing tomorrow's doctors who shall have all the attributes of the best physicians.
Patient-centered care will come alive when one walks alongside patients, on a shared healing journey, and she said that NIMSR shall be a center to reconnect. She also said that NIMSR bears the core concept of lifelong learning in medical education: 'Enter to learn, develop the skills, and exit to serve.'

Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA of Kohima Town donated to NIMSR several priceless specimens of pathological tissues and organs collected over several years of his clinical practice as a surgeon at the program.

(Atuzo Asst Director, Takumpula IA )