Nagaland Guv reviews healthcare, agriculture, youth development initiatives

Kohima, Jun 19 (PTI) Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav reviewed the progress of key initiatives in healthcare, agriculture and youth development sectors during a series of official visits and review meetings, emphasising the need to ensure that government investments and scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for the people. During a visit to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Nagaland Centre, at Medziphema on Friday, the governor reviewed ongoing research and technology dissemination programmes aimed at strengthening the state's agricultural sector, according to an official statement. Scientists of the centre highlighted achievements in climate-resilient agriculture, integrated farming systems, drought-tolerant rice varieties, improved cultivation of Naga King Chilli, horticultural value addition, rainwater harvesting, and innovations in pig and poultry production, including artificial insemination and conservation of indigenous livestock. Yadav toured research farms, laboratories and livestock and fisheries units, and commended the institution for developing location-specific technologies that enhance agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming and improve farmers' livelihoods. He stressed the importance of translating scientific research into practical solutions that strengthen food security and boost rural incomes. On Thursday, the governor visited the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (NIMSR) in Kohima and described the state's first medical college as a landmark institution in Nagaland's healthcare sector. Expressing satisfaction over the institute's progress since the launch of its MBBS programme in 2023, he lauded its academic infrastructure, research initiatives, community outreach initiatives and student mentoring programmes. He also welcomed the proposed operationalisation of the NIMSR Hospital and the planned 400-bed tertiary care centre, saying the projects would significantly strengthen medical education, healthcare delivery and research in the state. The governor appreciated the institute's Indigenous Herbal Garden and its efforts to integrate artificial intelligence and digital technologies into healthcare, expressing confidence that NIMSR would emerge as a centre of excellence. Earlier, chairing a review meeting of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports at Lok Bhavan, Yadav assessed the department's programmes, infrastructure projects and future plans for youth empowerment and sports development. Officials briefed him on achievements in grassroots football, women's futsal, youth festivals and leadership programmes, as well as the performance of Nagaland athletes in national and international competitions in disciplines such as taekwondo, boxing, archery and sepaktakraw. The governor also reviewed sports infrastructure projects being implemented under schemes including Khelo India, PM-DevINE and SASCI. He took note of future initiatives, including the proposed Chief Minister's Sports Initiative aimed at supporting talented athletes through scholarships, coaching and exposure opportunities. Appreciating the department's efforts, Yadav called for stronger grassroots interventions and greater opportunities for young people, emphasising that development initiatives must reach every section of society across the state. PTI NBS NBS ACD