Along with the rest of the country, the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA) a fortnight-long health campaign with services for women and children was launched in Nagaland on Wednesday.
The state level launching was done by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in capital Kohima while the district launches were carried out by the respective Deputy Commissioners (DC) along with health officials, healthcare workers and community members. The campaign will run from September 17 to October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti.
Noklak: In Noklak, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mono Khiamniungan launched the SNSPA at the District Hospital Noklak, in the presence of dignitaries, officials, and community representatives.
The DC emphasized that without the good health of women, the entire community is affected. Stating that the initiative is intended for women and children, he called for spreading the message widely to community leaders.
The DC further urged ASHA workers to proactively ensure that pregnant women are scanned on time and encouraged the public to have trust in medical officers and health workers for the wellbeing of society. He also underlined that cooperation and awareness are key to building a healthier society.
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Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Noklak, Dr. Victor highlighted the department’s efforts to provide free treatment for tuberculosis patients through the District Planning Development Board, aiming to declare the district TB-free by 2030. He also raised concern over the alarming rise of HIV infections, further urged the NGOs and church leaders for widespread public awareness, especially among the younger generation. He stated that due to the absence of specialist doctors, patients are often referred to Tuensang or Mokokchung for treatment. He highlighted the urgent need for specialist doctors in the district to address the growing healthcare challenges.
Pointing out that immunization of infants remains a priority, Dr. Victor further appealed to NGOs and community leaders to extend their support in ensuring better healthcare services and awareness in the region.
As part of the launching program, free screening test of immunization for infants and diabetics and Blood pressure for mothers were conducted.
Wokha: DC Wokha Vineent Kumar on Wednesday launched the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA) at the Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital (DMMDH) Wokha.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Kumar said the SNSPA campaign is not the introduction of a new programme but a renewed focus on women’s health and the wellbeing of families. He pointed out that despite many schemes already being implemented under different departments, there are gaps between the expected outcomes and the actual results on the ground. Kumar identified three major reasons for these gaps: lack of awareness among the public regarding existing schemes, logistical and resource limitations which restrict access, and the unwillingness of individuals to utilise available services. He added that social barriers such as stigma around early pregnancy disclosure and patriarchal decision-making within households also prevent women from availing healthcare.
Stating that women are the pivot of families, the DC said when a woman is healthy, the children and the family are healthy.
He also spoke about the importance of early childhood care and nutrition, noting that the foundation of a child’s physical and cognitive development is largely determined within the first five years of life. The official urged all departments, medical professionals and community stakeholders to actively participate in the campaign so that meaningful outcomes can be achieved within the 15-day period and beyond.
On a separate note, Kumar requested the hospital management to ensure that emergency night services, maternity care, and other essential healthcare services are functional and accessible to the public.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Mhonchan N. Kithan, Medical Superintendent DMMDH Wokha while Dr. Thungchanbemo Ezung, Chief Medical Officer Wokha delivered the welcome address.
The keynote address on SNSPA was presented by Dr. Thungchanpeni Patton, District Programme Officer (RMNCAH+N) Wokha.
