Dr Reyosalu Lase Vizo, Joint Director (Dental)/SNO-NOHP receiving the ‘Best Performing State in the Small States Category’ for its outstanding activities conducted as part of World Oral Health Day 2025 activities.
Kohima, August 6 (MExN): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) Government of India, has recognised Nagaland as the ‘Best Performing State in the Small States Category’ for its outstanding activities conducted from March 20 to April 20 as part of the World Oral Health Day 2025 activities.
The award function was held at the Centre for Dental Education and Research (CDER), AIIMS, New Delhi on August 6.
On receiving the award, Dr Reyosalu Lase Vizo, Joint Director (Dental)/SNO-NOHP (National Oral Health Programme, Nagaland) said, “This National recognition is a proud moment for the State and the Department of Health & Family Welfare, and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Oral Health Professionals, staff and health workers at all levels.”
In an update, Dr Lase expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and National Oral Health Programme India for the honour.
She said, “This award belongs to everyone in the department, all the Senior Officials (including those who have retired) and officials of the Directorate and Districts, all Dental & NHM staff, all Dental Surgeons in all the Dental Health Units, IDA-NSB, every health worker, volunteer, partners, schools, Police, churches, orphanages, Care-Centres, Old Age Homes, Special Schools and the community at large who contributed to making our World Oral Health Day 25 activities impactful and inclusive.”
“With NOHP India’s continued guidance and support, we remain committed to advancing oral and dental health awareness and service across Nagaland especially in underserved and remote areas. We also acknowledge the collaborative spirit across districts and health units in making this achievement possible,” Dr Lase added.
“This accolade will further motivate the State to continue building strong, community centered Oral and Health systems that align with National Goals and Priorities,” she asserted.
A series of awareness programmes and screening camps were conducted in schools and communities, with a special focus on proper brushing techniques. Toothpaste and toothbrushes were distributed, along with pledge-taking ceremonies and IEC activities such as banners, posters, leaflets, and pamphlets. Competitions, including poster-making, painting, essay writing, and reels-making on oral health themes, were organised, with prizes awarded to winners.
In some districts, marathons and walkathons were held, with winners receiving prizes. Interactions were held with church leaders and village elders, accompanied by the distribution of toothpaste, toothbrushes, and gift hampers. Awareness sessions and screenings were also conducted for jawans and their families.
Innovative initiatives like ‘Selfie booths’ for oral health awareness were set up to engage the public. Outreach programmes targeted marginalised communities, including orphanages, care centres, old age homes, and special schools, where toothpaste, toothbrushes, and gift hampers were distributed. Special denture camps were organised for elderly residents of old age homes and villagers in remote areas lacking access to dental care facilities.
Additionally, dental health camps were conducted across all 11 districts and 38 dental health units where dental surgeons are posted, ensuring comprehensive oral healthcare services.
