In a major healthcare boost for Nagaland, Smile Train — the world’s largest cleft-focused organization — has partnered with the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), Dimapur, to provide free cleft surgeries and comprehensive treatment for children across the state. The initiative aims to support families in remote areas who struggle with awareness and affordability barriers, ensuring timely medical intervention for children born with cleft lip and palate.
The collaboration will help expand CIHSR’s Happy Smiles program by offering training, funding, and technical support to medical professionals to deliver safe and sustainable cleft care locally. “Our goal is to ensure that every child born with a cleft has access to safe and timely treatment close to home,” said Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President & Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train. CIHSR Director Dr. Sedevi Angami added that the partnership will “bring specialized care closer to families and transform lives, one smile at a time.”
In Kohima’s healthcare and community circles, the announcement has been widely welcomed, especially among families who previously had to travel long distances or outside the state for treatment. Healthcare advocates in the Kohima market area say the partnership will create new hope for parents and reduce the financial burden of medical travel, marking a vital step toward accessible child healthcare in Nagaland. With nearly 35,000 babies born with clefts in India every year, Smile Train’s initiative reinforces its commitment to strengthening local healthcare ecosystems. Families seeking free cleft services can contact Smile Train’s toll-free number: 1800 103 8301.
