Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has extended an official development assistance (ODA) loan of 10,008 million Japanese Yen (approximately INR 564crores) to support the establishment of the Medical College Hospital at Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in Kohima, Nagaland, underscoring Japan’s commitment to promoting healthcare infrastructure and medical education in India.
The ODA loan agreement was signed between Mr. Vikas Sheel, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance and Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative, JICA India. The project, led by the Indian government and in collaboration with the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, aims to address the healthcare challenges faced by the state, which currently ranks low in terms of access and quality, by establishing tertiary health services, enhancing medical education, and ensuring healthcare access for all. Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India office said, “It is a dedicated step to further JICA’s commitment to supporting India’s healthcare sector and promoting universal access to quality healthcare services across the country.”
The project aims to build a 400-bed Medical College Hospital in Kohima, Nagaland, providing tertiary medical services. The hospital will enhance the medical human resource development system, promoting Universal Health Coverage in the region. The project aligns with India’s priority to reduce regional disparities and promote socio-economic development in the Northeast region, and Japan’s assistance policy for India, which emphasizes connectivity and sustainable growth.
