Health Officials Launch World Population Campaign in Kohima and Wokha

Kohima: Health officials in Kohima and Wokha marked World Population Day with a week-long campaign aimed at curbing unintended pregnancies. Programs organized by District Health Societies under the National Health Mission kicked off on July 11 and run through July 18, 2026.

Kohima hosted its primary session at the Chief Medical Officer's conference hall on July 11. Dr. Khrievilhou Nakhro discussed family planning options and the Mission Parivar Vikas initiative. He highlighted the SAARTHI on Wheels program, which brings contraceptive services directly to residents. Advocacy efforts include distributing condoms, promoting IUCD and PPIUCD insertions, and offering tubectomy and vasectomy procedures across all district blocks.

Wokha held its event on July 13 at the Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Thunchangbemo Ezung urged staff to maintain momentum during the stabilization fortnight. Medical officer Dr. Benchumi Humtsoe warned that short gaps between births trigger nutritional deficits. She noted, "Citing World Health Organisation recommendations, she said at least two years of spacing was necessary to safeguard maternal health."

Staff are conducting focus group discussions and displaying banners to reach local couples. The campaign emphasizes delayed marriage and male participation in family planning. Speakers also addressed HIV and AIDS awareness alongside postpartum and post-abortion care. Dr. John Kent closed the Wokha event, which drew attendance from ASHA coordinators, medical officers, and district personnel.