A collaborative health initiative designed to improve early detection and prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) was launched today in Kohima. The program, “Access to Care – Nagaland: A Wellness Initiative,” brings together Doctors For You (DFY), Siemens Healthineers (under its CSR program), and the State NP-NCD Cell, with support from the Nagaland Department of Health & Family Welfare.

The initiative will provide screening for major NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke, while also working to enhance healthcare infrastructure and services in the state’s remote and underserved areas.

At the launch event held at Hotel De Oriental Grand, Anoop Khinchi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary of Health and Family Welfare, called the program a critical step in combating the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases in Nagaland. “By bringing preventive healthcare closer to communities, this initiative will save lives and reduce long-term medical costs, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.

Reiterating the company’s commitment to healthcare in rural regions, Shwetanjali Kumari, CSR Head at Siemens Healthineers mentioned that the initiative is more than a project. “It’s an investment in the future health of Nagaland’s people,” she said.

Dr. Shefali Agarwal, Director (Strategy & Transformation) of DFY, emphasized the initiative’s focus on reaching marginalized groups. “Our mission is to ensure that quality healthcare reaches everyone, leaving no one behind,” said Dr. Agarwal.

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I.Changsang (NCS), Under Secretary of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), further spoke on the need for cross-sector partnerships in healthcare. He also acknowledged the need for early intervention which is key in fighting NCDs, which often go undetected until it is too late.

Dr. Alemwabang Aier, Joint Director and State Programme Officer (NP-NCD), presented the project’s goals, implementation strategy, and expected impact.

The event began with an opening address by Dr. Nilutpal Das, Medical Officer, who highlighted the urgent need to improve healthcare access in Nagaland’s rural communities. Dr. Leamnyei Konyak, Chief Medical Officer of Kohima, delivered the closing remarks.