Nagaland’s Health and Family Welfare Minister P. Paiwang Konyak has raised alarm over growing delays in health infrastructure development due to conditions imposed by land donors. His concern was voiced during an official inspection of the newly upgraded Community Health Centre (CHC) Satakha in Zunheboto district, under the second phase of the state-wide “Viksit Nagaland for Viksit Bharat” campaign.
Minister Konyak, while addressing local stakeholders, said that land meant for public welfare projects, especially in the health sector, must be offered selflessly. He noted that strings attached to land donations are significantly stalling the pace of progress, preventing timely completion of crucial medical facilities.
“Health infrastructure is for everyone’s benefit. It is disheartening when conditional land donations delay services that could save lives,” the minister remarked. “If landowners cooperate fully, CHC Satakha has the potential to emerge as a model health centre for the entire region.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery, Minister Konyak announced that staff strength at CHC Satakha will be increased once the centre becomes fully operational. He also encouraged people to enrol in the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and Ayushman Bharat, India’s flagship health insurance programme, to ensure universal access to free and quality medical care.
During his visit, Konyak planted a sapling in the CHC premises, symbolising both environmental responsibility and the state government’s long-term commitment to community health.
In a stern message to the healthcare sector, the minister reiterated that pharmacies operating without valid licenses or being run by unqualified individuals will face strict legal consequences. “We have already begun the cancellation process. It will continue in accordance with the law,” he said, adding that quality assurance and legal compliance in medical services cannot be compromised.
Minister Konyak also visited the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Satakha, where he interacted with patients and inspected facilities, including the drug store and diagnostic lab. He expressed satisfaction with the dedication of healthcare workers, but stressed the need for upgradation and expansion in rural health infrastructure to match growing population needs.
The minister appealed to BJP workers and grassroots volunteers in the district to remain active in public outreach and support the state’s healthcare mission. “We must work together to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by ensuring a Viksit Nagaland in every aspect, especially in healthcare,” he said.
Later in the day, the minister led a team to inspect the ongoing construction of the new District Hospital in Zunheboto, a key project aimed at addressing tertiary care needs in the region. He was accompanied by K.T. Sukhalu, Advisor for Food & Civil Supplies and LMCP, as well as top officials from the Department of Health and Family Welfare, including the Secretary and Principal Director.
