By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 7: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday handed over a cheque of Rs 1 crore to Nazareth Hospital, Shillong, as part of the state government’s ongoing policy to support non-profit hospitals and strengthen healthcare services, particularly for the underprivileged and marginalised.
The financial grant is intended to enhance the hospital’s capacity to deliver critical care and improve infrastructure in key departments.
Speaking at the event, Sangma reiterated the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery despite the many challenges facing the sector. “Meghalaya has the highest budgetary allocation for the health sector compared to any other state in the country, a large portion of which is dedicated to infrastructure development,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and private institutions in achieving shared healthcare goals. “Our goals are ultimately the same — to provide quality, efficient, and affordable healthcare to the people. This is where partnerships with different hospitals become crucial,” Sangma added, while also elaborating on the genesis and vision behind the Meghalaya Health Advancement Policy.
He expressed appreciation for the dedication of healthcare workers and urged them to continue serving with commitment and compassion. Highlighting the need for improved inter-hospital communication, he noted that such collaboration would not only enhance patient outcomes but also foster stronger cooperation among medical professionals.
Nazareth Hospital Administrator Sr. Noreen thanked the state government for the timely assistance and outlined the hospital’s immediate priorities. She said the grant would be used to procure life-saving equipment and ventilators for the Emergency Trauma Unit, Maternity Care, and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. A portion of the funds will also support the upcoming College of Nursing, which is expected to enrol 100 students annually.
