Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated the Babies’ Critical Care Unit (SNCU, NICU & MNCU) at Ganesh Das Government Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Shillong on Wednesday. The event was attended by Health & Family Welfare Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh.
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Sangma emphasised that while investments in infrastructure and equipment are crucial, the true agents of change are the people involved.
He praised the team at Ganesh Das Hospital for their dedication and transformation despite challenges. “It is inspiring to see such commitment,” Sangma said, adding that other health centers in the state should draw inspiration from this example.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that approximately 9% of the state budget is allocated to the health sector. He assured continued government support for further improvements at Ganesh Das Hospital.
Sangma announced plans for new medical colleges in Shillong and Tura, aiming for a 2025 start for Shillong Medical College and a 2026 start for Tura Medical College. He expressed optimism that these institutions will enhance the state’s overall health scenario.
Sangma also noted significant investments being made to improve health facilities in rural areas, including better accommodation for medical staff. He urged the doctors and staff of Ganesh Das Hospital to remain driven by their purpose and dedication to saving lives.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh echoed the Chief Minister’s sentiments, stressing the government’s commitment to ensuring that every patient and child receives the best possible care, including cashless treatment options.
She also addressed the challenges faced by contractual health staff and reiterated efforts to encourage doctors to return and serve in the state. Lyngdoh described the new Babies’ Critical Care Unit as a beacon of hope for the citizens.
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The newly inaugurated facilities will provide advanced care for high-risk pregnant women and newborns. The SNCU-NICU complex, which became operational on May 1, 2024, was funded through hospital resources generated from PMJAY-MHIS.
The complex features 6 NICU beds with advanced capabilities such as Non-Invasive and Invasive Ventilation, CPAP, and HFNC, along with a 10-bedded maternal and newborn care unit. Additional funding from MMDSL and the office of DHS-MI has supported the acquisition of equipment and staffing.
This new development marks the first government hospital in the state to offer comprehensive SNCU, NICU, and MNCU services, aiming to provide critical care and support to vulnerable patients.
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