Nagaland University inaugurates cancer research lab

DIMAPUR — Marking a significant milestone in the scientific advancement and commitment to addressing the growing burden of cancer in the region, Nagaland University (NU), Lumami, inaugurated a cancer research laboratory on Thursday at the department of Zoology, which was followed by a workshop.

An update from the university stated that the inaugural ceremony was attended by Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, vice-chancellor of NU, as the chief guest and Dr. Abemo, registrar of NU, as the guest of honour.

The inaugural session began with ribbon-cutting ceremony and an inspection of the newly established laboratory, during which the chief guest was briefed about the laboratory facilities and available equipment.

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In his speech, Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik shared personal reflections on how cancer had profoundly affected his own family, having lost close relatives to the disease. He reaffirmed his dedication to advancing scientific research and innovation at Nagaland University, urging faculty and students to pursue excellence through research and publication.

He encouraged scholars to document and explore traditional healing practices by engaging with kobiraz (local healers) to identify potential natural remedies, suggesting the possibility of recognising and patenting such indigenous knowledge.

Prof. Patnaik further expressed his enduring emotional connection to Nagaland, assuring continued support for the university’s scientific initiatives.

Also speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abemo commended the vice-chancellor’s vision for fostering scientific innovation within the university. He underscored the importance of scientific progress for the betterment of humanity.

He further encouraged collaborative efforts between the department and healthcare facilities to work toward a cancer-free society, noting that Nagaland University holds immense potential in contributing to cancer prevention and cure.

Delivering the welcome address, Prof. Bendang Ao emphasised the urgent need to focus on cancer research due to the alarming increase in cancer cases in Nagaland, particularly gastrointestinal cancers. Drawing from personal experience, he spoke on the deep impact of the disease on families and communities.

Prof. Ao also lauded the efforts of Prof. Ranjit Kumar for conceptualising the idea of cancer research laboratory and expressed gratitude to the university administration and engineering team for their unwavering support. He further expressed optimism that the university would soon emerge as a centre of excellence in cancer research.

In his address, Prof. Ranjit Kumar highlighted the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data showing Nagaland ranking first in nasopharyngeal cancer and second in oral cancer in India, with notable incidences of oesophageal and colon cancers. He pointed out that the actual burden might be even higher as many cases go unreported.

Encouraging students to pursue research in this field, he emphasised that cancer research must be indigenous and locally driven. He noted that the new laboratory would facilitate cancer cell line studies and development of potential therapeutic formulations using resources available within the department including its animal house.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Pukhrambam Rajesh Singh, assistant professor of Zoology.