Lab technicians undergo FDSI training in Kohima

A one-day training for Laboratory Technicians under the Free Diagnostic Service Initiative (FDSI) was held in two batches, beginning July 3, at the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DoHFW), Kohima.
A DIPR report informed that the training was organised by the Department in collaboration with Regional Resource Centre-North East (RRC-NE), Guwahati.
Addressing the participants, director of RRC-NE, Dr. Raj Prabha Moktan, said lab services play a key role not only in clinical treatment but also in preventive healthcare. She stressed on strengthening diagnostic services and highlighted future focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and e-Health in the next phase of the National Health Mission (2025–2030). She encouraged Nagaland to align its lab services with the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
Dr. Raj also lauded Nagaland’s low infant mortality rate (7 as per SRS 2022), and noted progress in Health & Wellness Centre (HWC) functionality, with 78% achieved and 83% of those fully operational. She appreciated the state’s efforts in National Quality Assurance Standard (NQAS) certification and expressed hope of reaching 100% certification by 2026.
Principal director, DoHFW, Dr. Mereninla Senlem, acknowledged RRC-NE’s continued support, especially for Aspirational Districts.
She underlined the importance of accurate diagnosis and urged lab technicians to upgrade their skills, informing that the State’s Paramedical Institute has introduced B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Technology.
Mission Director, NHM, Nagaland, Dr. Avile Zao, encouraged participants to utilise the training to enhance their knowledge and improve the overall quality of lab services in the state.
Vote of thanks was delivered by director, DoHFW, Dr. Sentimeren Aonok, who said that such training was vital for ensuring timely, affordable, and quality healthcare services. The programme was chaired by Dr. Keveduyi Theyo, State Programme Officer, NHM. An overview of FDSI in Nagaland was presented by deputy director, NHM, Dr. Manyau Phom.
Technicians from Mon, Noklak, Peren, Phek, Tuensang, Wokha, Zunheboto and Longleng attended the training on July 3, while participants from Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung and Kiphire will attend on July 4.
The training includes modules on FDSI, Internal Quality Control, EQAS, and hands-on sessions. Resource persons included Bhaswat Kumar Das, Senior Consultant, RRC-NE; Pumani Kalita, Consultant CP-CPHC, RRC-NE; and technical experts from Trimed.