JICA extends ODA loan of INR 564 crores to the North-Eastern state of Nagaland for the Project for the Establishment of the Medical College Hospital at Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kohima

New Delhi, February 20, 2024: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has extended an official development assistance (ODA) loan of 10,008 million Japanese Yen (approximately INR 564 crores) to support the establishment of the Medical College Hospital at Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in Kohima, Nagaland, underscoring Japan's commitment to promoting healthcare infrastructure and medical education in India.

The project aims to address the pressing healthcare challenges faced by Nagaland, a state with a population of approximately 1.98 million. Nagaland currently ranks low in terms of healthcare access and quality, with limited medical infrastructure and a shortage of trained medical personnel. Under the leadership of the Government of India and in collaboration with the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, the project endeavours to achieve the establishment of tertiary health services, enhancement of medical education, and access to healthcare for all.

In line with the same, the project will develop a 400-bedded Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Kohima, Nagaland, providing tertiary-level medical services to the residents of the state. Through clinical-based education, including the training of physicians and specialists, it will help strengthen the medical human resource development system, thereby contributing to the promotion of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the region. Further, by establishing the MCH in the state capital, the project seeks to improve access to quality healthcare services, particularly for underserved populations in Nagaland.

The project aligns with the Government of India’s priority to reduce regional disparities and promote socio-economic development in the Northeast region by improving healthcare infrastructure and medical education in the region. It also aligns with Japan's assistance policy for India, which emphasizes enhancing connectivity and supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.

The ODA loan agreement was signed between Mr. Vikas Sheel, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance and Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative, JICA India.

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India office said, “This project holds immense significance in addressing the healthcare needs of Nagaland. It is a dedicated step to further JICA's commitment to supporting India's healthcare sector and promoting universal access to quality healthcare services across the country.”

The project, with a cooperation period from February 2024 to October 2035, will be executed in close collaboration with the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research and other relevant stakeholders. It aligns with the development agendas of both the Government of India and Japan, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal 3 of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

This project also aligns with one of the specific support measures of JICA's Initiative for Global Health and Medicine, which aims to enhance diagnosis and treatment systems. This initiative was established in support of former Japanese Prime Minister Suga's address at the UN General Assembly on September 25,

2020. JICA remains dedicated to fostering strong partnerships and implementing impactful projects that contribute to the socio-economic development and well-being of people in India and beyond.

The figures are calculated with current exchange ratio: INR 1/- = JPY 1.7743700/-

About JICA
Established, by a specific law, as an incorporated administrative, as the sole Japanese governmental agency in charge of ODA implementation. JICA is the world's largest bilateral donor agency. JICA works as a bridge between Japan and emerging countries like India and provides assistance in the form of loans, grants, and technical cooperation so that emerging countries can strengthen their capabilities.

For further information, please contact: