DIMAPUR: A Sikkim delegation paid a courtesy call on Development Commissioner, Y. Kikheto Sema at his office chamber in the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima, on August 31, during its two day visit to study the implementation of the Nagaland Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS).
According to DIPR report, the delegation comprised Karma N. Bhutia, secretary to the Chief Minister of Sikkim; Depen Sharma, Special Secretary, CMO; Dr. Subash Tamang, Chief Medical Officer to the Chief Minister; and Tenzing Chopel Bhutia, Staff Officer to the CMO. Interacting with the team, Kikheto highlighted the evolution of CMHIS from the initial Central Government Health Insurance Scheme, noting challenges such as limited hospital empanelment and inadequate reimbursement rates. He said the State Government subsequently revised arrangements, improved reimbursement rates and expanded the network of empanelled hospitals.
Kikheto informed that more than 70 hospitals across the country are currently empanelled under CMHIS, including facilities in Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati frequently accessed by Nagaland patients. Government and private hospitals within the State are also part of the network. He added that around 64,000 beneficiaries have been registered and approximately Rs. 252 crore paid towards treatment under the scheme over nearly four years. He further stated that CMHIS has extended coverage to many residents not included under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM JAY), thereby ensuring wider access to cashless healthcare. On Nagaland’s overall development, Kikheto acknowledged progress since statehood but stressed the need for greater efforts in health, roads, agriculture and allied sectors.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Bhutia expressed gratitude for the opportunity to study Nagaland’s health insurance model, describing it as a valuable learning experience. He said Sikkim was keen to adopt the Nagaland model, particularly its cashless treatment provisions, and requested technical guidance and continued cooperation.
Bhutia recalled that the decision to study CMHIS followed an interaction with Kikheto during a NITI Aayog meeting on June 12, 2026, where Nagaland’s achievements were highlighted. He acknowledged the challenges Nagaland faced in hospital empanelment, reimbursement and service delivery, but said these efforts had created a strong foundation for other States.
The visiting team will further hold discussions with the Planning and Health Departments and visit selected institutions to study CMHIS and other development initiatives. The interaction concluded with a commitment to strengthen cooperation, exchange best practices and promote mutual learning between Nagaland and Sikkim.
