Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen on Wednesday inaugurated the Kangpokpi Christian Hospital (KCH) Diagnostic Centre in Kangpokpi town, marking a significant step towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the district and reviving the role of one of Manipur's historically important Christian medical institutions.
The inauguration is particularly significant for Kangpokpi Christian Hospital, popularly known as Mission Hospital, which has a longstanding place in the history of healthcare in Manipur.
Established in 1920 by American Baptist missionary Dr. G.G. Crozier and his wife, KCH was originally known as Mission Hospital Manipur. It was among the earliest Christian hospitals in the Northeast and became a major healthcare destination, attracting patients from across Manipur and neighbouring northeastern states. It pioneered medical outreach through a dispensary and one of the earliest leprosy-care facilities in Manipur, alongside educational and humanitarian initiatives.
The establishment of the new Diagnostic Centre is expected to strengthen the hospital's capacity to provide essential diagnostic services, enabling patients to access important medical investigations closer to home rather than travelling long distances for tests and preliminary diagnosis.
Inaugurating the centre by cutting the ribbon and unveiling the commemorative plaque, Kipgen described the initiative as a significant milestone in strengthening healthcare services and bringing essential diagnostic facilities closer to the people.
She emphasised the importance of diagnostic facilities in modern healthcare, where timely and accurate investigations are crucial for detecting diseases, identifying medical conditions, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring patients' recovery. Improved access to diagnostic services, she noted, can help facilitate early intervention, reduce the burden of travelling for patients and their families, and contribute to more effective healthcare delivery.
The Diagnostic Centre has been dedicated to the memory of Late Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, in recognition of his enduring legacy of service, compassion and commitment to humanity.
Dr. Sitlhou was among three church leaders killed in an ambush on May 13 this year, a case that remains unresolved. The dedication of the facility in his memory adds a solemn and deeply meaningful dimension to the occasion, linking the advancement of healthcare with the values of selfless service and compassion that he represented.
In a significant announcement for the hospital and its patients, the Deputy Chief Minister also assured the expansion and improvement of the road connecting the highway to the hospital to ensure better accessibility for patients, visitors and the general public.
She extended heartfelt congratulations to the KCH management, medical personnel, nursing students, staff members and all those who contributed to making the Diagnostic Centre a reality.
Upon her arrival, Kipgen was accorded a standing reception along the hospital road by nursing students and staff members.
She was accompanied by Joel G. Haokip, MCS, Joint Secretary to the Deputy Chief Minister's Office, and Thanggoulen Khongsai, OSD, besides representatives of the hospital authority and the Dr. G.G. Grozier Ward No. 10 Committee.
Following the formal inauguration and dedication ceremony by Rev. Lhoukholal Kipgen, Chaplain of the hospital, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected the newly inaugurated facility under the guidance of Medical Superintendent Dr. Thangjangul Khongsai.
The inauguration marks an important development for Kangpokpi Christian Hospital, with the new facility expected to improve access to diagnostic services and reinforce the institution's longstanding commitment to healthcare.
The centre is envisioned as a beacon of healing, hope and quality healthcare for the people of Kangpokpi and surrounding areas.
The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128
