Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 11
Finally marking the realization of a dream conceptualized seven years ago, the Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio today inaugurated the much-awaited state-of-art medical facility christened Zion Hospital and Research Centre (ZHRC) at Purana Bazaar Dimapur. The ZHRC is a joint venture by a group of doctors, of various specializations, representing the Bethel Medical Research Society Dimapur and businessman and Philanthropist Yashitsungba and his family.
Addressing a large gathering of distinguished citizens that included Guest of Honor Dr TM Lotha, Minister of Health & Family welfare, TR Zeliang, Member of Parliament and Nikki Haralu, former Diplomat, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the chief guest of the inaugural programme expressed appreciation at the private venture ‘realized with no Government help at all. Saying that Nagas are consistent to ‘eat a lot but work or exercise less’, he urged professionals to take initiatives towards enterprises without waiting for the government to assist or help.
“Doctors and nurses working outside are coming back to Nagaland to provide treatment” he said but drew irony “that at the same time there are in the State many more Doctors and Nurses who are without employment”. Relatively he reminded that local and private entrepreneurship can be undertaken without having to depend too much on the state Government. Rio encouraged Naga professionals in the medical sector to venture out and assured them all possible help from the Government of Nagaland. “We need more private ventures and enterprises he reminded.
Earlier in the programme Dr R Kikon, Managing Director ZHRC in his welcome address while tracing back the course of events that incepted the hospital said that the centre would charge moderately ‘despite our heavy burden’. “Considering the poor economic condition of the common man and keeping in mind the affordability factor, it shall be a policy of this medical centre that no one is denied basic life-saving medical care just because of one’s financial inability, constraint and shortcoming.” He appealed to all concerned for prayer, support, blessing and goodwill as the Hospital embarks on a mission of healing.
Among those who spoke on the occasion were TR Zeliang, Rajya Sabha MP who pledged to donate an ambulance to the hospital, and Dr TM Lotha, Health & Family Welfare. The dedication was offered by Reverend Zhabu Terhuja, General Secretary NBCC. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Dr Tali Longkumer after which a luncheon followed for the gathered guests.
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