In order to address the critical need for emergency care in Mon, particularly highlighted during last year’s dengue outbreak when the lack of a blood storage and transfusion center posed a significant challenge, a long-awaited blood storage center was inaugurated on August 31, at the Mon District Hospital by Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma.
A press release from Media officer, NHM, Mon, Leeyan Chemshy, informed that Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Mon, Dr. T. Temsu Ao while speaking at the inauguration programme, emphasized on the importance of public involvement in the center’s operations.
“A blood bank cannot exist without the assistance of the public,” he noted, expressing his desire to transfer ownership of the hospital and blood storage center to civil society. He also outlined the facility’s background, purpose, and strategic plans, including modifications made by the Hospital Management Committee (HMC) to meet the standards for establishing a licensed blood storage center.
Dr. Temsu called for cooperation from local organizations, including the Konyak Union (KU), Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong (KNSK), Konyak Students’ Union (KSU), churches, and other civil groups, to ensure the success of the center.
“Our people need access to life-saving blood transfusion,” he stressed, urging those present to spread the word about the community’s shared responsibility to maintain a steady supply of blood at the center. He also expressed gratitude to the medical department, led by Minister Paiwang Konyak, for providing the essential infrastructure and equipment needed to establish the center.
Deputy Commissioner Ajit Kumar Verma, who also serves as the Chairman of the Hospital Management Committee, shared insights into the lengthy discussions and efforts involved in setting up the blood storage center. He highlighted the difficulties faced by patients who had to travel to Dimapur or Dibrugarh for blood emergencies and congratulated the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Minister Paiwang Konyak, Dr. Temsu, and all those who played a role in making the center a reality.
KNSK president Ponglem Konyak expressed appreciation on behalf of civil societies, while Rev. H. Moba from KBCM offered a dedication prayer for the new facility.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives from the Konyak Union, KNSK, KSU, John 3:16 Society, the Hospital Management Committee, and staff from the Chief Medical Officer’s office.