Nagaland University has inaugurated a new cancer research laboratory within the Department of Zoology at its Lumami campus, marking a significant step forward in advancing scientific research and tackling the growing cancer burden in the region. The facility was formally opened by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, in the presence of faculty members and students.
During the inauguration, Prof. Patnaik underscored the importance of promoting scientific inquiry and innovation at the university, encouraging faculty and students to engage in impactful research and academic publication. He called for greater collaboration between modern science and indigenous knowledge systems, urging scholars to study traditional healing practices and explore potential natural remedies that could be scientifically validated and patented.
Prof. Bendang Ao, in his welcome address, highlighted the increasing prevalence of cancer in Nagaland, especially gastrointestinal cancers, and stressed the urgent need for focused research in this area. He acknowledged the efforts of Prof. Ranjit Kumar, who conceptualised the laboratory, and thanked the university administration and engineering team for their support in bringing the project to fruition.
Prof. Kumar cited data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which places Nagaland first in nasopharyngeal cancer and second in oral cancer incidence nationwide. He also noted a worrying rise in oesophageal and colon cancers, suggesting that the true prevalence could be higher due to underreporting.
Guest of honour Dr. Abemo, the university registrar, commended the leadership’s vision for strengthening scientific infrastructure and research capacity at Nagaland University. The new laboratory is expected to serve as a foundation for future studies on cancer biology, local risk factors, and potential therapeutic discoveries, positioning the university as an emerging hub for cancer research in Northeast India.
Also Read
