Two-cadre system to address doctors’ shortage — Nagaland Health minister Paiwang 

MOKOKCHUNG — Minister for Health and Family Welfare P Paiwang Konyak on Wednesday revealed that the department is facing a shortage of over 100 doctors.

To address this, the department plans to introduce a two-cadre system—specialised and non-specialised doctors—pending approval from the state government. Recruitment drives will commence once the system is in place.

The minister is currently touring Nagaland to assess medical infrastructure and amenities. During his visit to Mokokchung on Wednesday, he inspected ongoing infrastructure development projects and ensured drug sales strict compliance with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines and food safety standards.

Konyak expressed concern over the impending retirement of several senior and A+ category doctors, emphasising the urgent need for specialised professionals to fill the gap. He highlighted the growing public expectation for improved healthcare services, supported by initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).

To ensure a steady supply of medical professionals, the state has implemented a surety bond for MBBS students, requiring them to serve the state government after completing their studies, he informed.

Also, the minister announced funding packages for infrastructure development: INR 3 crore for the completion of Block ‘A’ under the IMDH upgradation project and an additional INR 2 crore for the speedy completion of a Critical Care Unit currently under construction.

The IMDH (Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital) project, intended to upgrade the facility to a 200-bed hospital with two building blocks (Block ‘A’ and Block ‘B’), has faced significant delays. Initially projected for completion in three years, the project has now extended beyond five years, with Block ‘B’ yet to commence. Konyak assured the public of expedited efforts and quality assurance.

In response to concerns raised by Ao Senden regarding the quality of construction materials, Konyak assured that engineers and technical teams would ensure adherence to quality standards. He also promised immediate attention to providing water facilities for the Nursing girls’ hostel.

During his visit, the minister conducted inspections of local pharmacies to ensure they were operated by qualified pharmacists and sold legal drugs. He also checked fish vendors for compliance with food safety standards and assessed the progress of Ayush Hospital in Sabangya, expressing satisfaction with the project’s workmanship.

The minister emphasised that his tour aims to evaluate the performance of doctors and nurses, oversee ongoing projects, and identify opportunities for repurposing non-functional buildings.