Shillong, March 1: Taking a major step to transform the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences in Shillong as one of the biggest health institutes of the north east, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has moved the central government to elevate it into an Institute of National Importance.
On Friday, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met with Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi to submit a memorandum seeking NEIGRIHMS elevation and stressing on its importance as a healthcare provider not just for Meghalaya but also the neighbouring states of the north eastern region where it continues to provide a vital support mechanism an on this regard, Mandaviya has assured to look into the matter.
“NEIGRIHMS is poised to embark on an expansion initiative, anticipating an increase in the number of seats in medicine, nursing and allied health service courses. This expansion aligns with our mission to enhance educational opportunities in Meghalaya. At this crucial juncture, the Government of Meghalaya strongly recommends the elevation and designation of NEIGRIHMS as an Institute of National Importance. This strategic move holds the promise of ushering in enhanced prosperity, extending beyond the confines of the institute and significantly contributing to the pride of the state of Meghalaya,” said the Meghalaya chief minister.
Sangma further mentioned that the people of Meghalaya foresee that the augmented autonomy bestowed upon NEIGRIHMS will not only amplify its operational efficiency but also elevate the standards of quality and accountability towards its catchment areas.
“This autonomy is anticipated to be a catalyst for positive change, benefiting both the residents of Meghalaya and the broader population of the North eastern Region of India,” he added.
The chief minister also presented a brief on the history of NEIGRIHMS that was established under the Meghalaya Registration of Society Act 1983 by the Government of India in 1987, standing proudly as an autonomous institute in Shillong.
Hailing the alumni of NEIGRIHMS as a testament to its national importance, the chief minister said it continues contributing actively to the institute’s footprint and reputation beyond the confines of the Northeast Region.
