CM inspects new Namchi District Hospital

NAMCHI, (IPR): Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay today made a prompt visit to the newly constructed 500-bedded Namchi District Hospital, where he conducted a brief inspection of the three wards that are currently functional- Department of Radiology, Department of Physiotherapy and the Department of Ophthalmology. 

The Chief Minister also made a brief inspection of the Blood Bank wing, OT rooms, NICU, private wards and the Central Laboratory Wing, personally testing the functionality of the medical equipment and interacting with the experts and technicians on duty. 

As a part of the Sewa Pakhwada 2025 initiative, to be observed from October 17th-20th, the hospital visit also aligns with the State's vision to integrate health, environment and social awareness, marking the spirit of service and nation-building.

The Chief Minister in his address congratulated the entire people of Namchi District on the operational functioning of the newly constructed 500-bedded District Hospital. He recalled that the old hospital established in the year 1975 had long been constrained by inadequate space and infrastructure, which poised significant challenges in serving the people in the district. 

Taking pride in its achievement, he highlighted that the new hospital not only provides modern infrastructure but is also equipped with advanced technologies and medical equipment. He reflected on the challenges faced by the State government during the global Covid-19 pandemic, when the proposal for the new hospital was initiated. Despite, such difficulties the government successfully completed the project within the stipulated timeframe and made several departments functional for the service of the people. 

The Chief Minister noted that the initial proposal was for a 300-bedded hospital but later got upgraded to a 500-bedded district hospital, keeping in view the long-term healthcare needs of the people. With his personal dedication and welfare for the public, he emphasized that his visits and inspection are aimed at ensuring that people face no inconvenience in the future.

Stressing that the healthcare remains the topmost priority of society, he urged the administration to expedite procedures to make the hospital fully functional at a war-footing speed. 

Addressing the issue of manpower shortage, he addressed urgency in relocating and deploying qualified experts and professionals to cater to the growing demands of the hospital. He appealed to the healthcare workers to dedicate themselves to the service and well-being of the people, while upholding State's reputation in the health sector. 

He also emphasized that cleanliness is fundamental to the effective functioning of any healthcare institution. He directed that appointments and postings be made strictly on the basis of qualification and technical knowledge. 

To ensure hygiene and discipline within the premises, he issued a strict directive prohibiting the use of betel leaves (Paan) and tobacco products, stating that such practices not only harm health but also degrade public property.

In the same context, he highlighted the importance of cleanliness in public restrooms at petrol pumps, noting that these facilities serve both tourists and local commuters and therefore must be maintained to high standards. 

The Chief Minister further announced that the new district hospital will have a designated hospital administrator, creating fresh employment opportunities for the youth of Sikkim and ensuring coordinated management in the hospital.

Highlighting achievement in the healthcare sector, he proudly mentioned successful knee and hip transplant surgeries performed in the State, while urging local people to take maximum advantage of these advanced medical facilities. He applauded the Sikkim has produced competent, top-class doctors at par with the best in the country.

He also underscored the importance of flagship initiatives such as Garib Jan kalyan Prakosta and Aama ko Godh, which provides critical healthcare assistance to the underprivileged citizens of the State. 

Lastly, the Chief Minister congratulated the entire team of district hospital Namchi, acknowledging their dedication and service to the people. He also shared an important announcement that in the coming year, Sikkim will have its own medical college, marking a historic step towards making the state Self-reliant in the healthcare sector. 

Health secretary Tshewang Gyaccho Bhutia addressed the welcome note and gave an overview of the functioning of the newly constructed 500-bedded District Hospital. Wherein, he mentioned that the state-of-the-art hospital, formally inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 29th May 2025, is a landmark achievement in the healthcare sector of Sikkim. It stands as a boon not only to the people of Namchi district, but also patients from beyond and across the state. The hospital is envisioned to provide quality healthcare, especially for those who are financially weak and avail top- class treatment in the comfort of their hometown.

The newly constructed hospital is equipped with a centralized air-conditioning system, ensuring comfort throughout the building. In addition, the key feature to this extensive infrastructure is that it has its own Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), which plays a crucial role in waste management, making the hospital environment-friendly and sustainable. The facility has also been upgraded with a 14-bedded Dialysis Unit, doubling the capacity of the previous hospital.

The hospital also features the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) to ensure infection control through proper sterilization and distribution of medical instruments. In addition, there are 14 Intensive Care Units (ICUs) to meet emergency and critical care needs. 

The Radiology Department is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostics tools including a 128-slice CT SCAN, advanced 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography for breast cancer screening and other hi-tech imaging system. 

The Physiotherapy Department is equipped with advanced muscle stimulators, Hydro-collateral and Lazer therapy units to support rehabilitation. 

The Ophthalmology Department features world- class equipment such as the “New Mach 3DOCT” for retinal imaging, TRC-50DX Mydratic Retinal Camera and the ALADIN system for advanced cataract surgery planning and myopia management. 

In addition, the hospital also features the Department of Aayush, which offers homeopathy and Amji treatment with a dedicated 12-bedded Indoor Patient Section, for patients who wants to avail treatment in the comfort of the department.

Other departments include, 6 functional OPDs, alongside the Department of Orthology, Dental and Psychaitry wards, which provide specialized care respectively.

Present during today's programme were, former member of Sikkim Legislative Assembly Krishna Kumari Rai, Deputy Speaker SLA Raj Kumari Thapa, Minister Health and Family Welfare department GT Dhungel, Minister Roads and Bridges department Mr N B Dahal, Minister Buildings &Housing and Labour department Bhim Hang Limboo, MLA Namchi-Singithang Satish Chandra Rai, MLA Namthang-Rateypani Sanjit Kharel, Zilla Adhakshya Namchi Anjeeta Rajalim, councillors, chairman and advisors, OSDs, DC Namchi Anupa Tamling, Sr Sp Karma Gyamtso Bhutia, ADC (HQ) Subhash Ghimirey, ADC Namchi Tirsang Tamang, SDM (HQ) Nim Pintso Bhutia, SDM Namchi Saran Kalikotey, SDM Namthang Pravin Gautam, SDM Ravangla Wongyal Sherpa, CMO Namchi Dr S.N Adhikari, BDO Namchi Upendra Rai, representatives from various health sectors, HoOs from various line departments, guests and doctors, faculty and staff of Namchi district hospital.