Rev Dr Sipong Chingmak honored with ‘Amazing Indians Award’ for social work

September 2, 2024 31 Views No Comment

TUENSANG, Sept 2 (MExN): Rev. Dr. Sipong Chingmak Chang, founder of the Eleutheros Christian Society (ECS), has been honored at Times Now’s Amazing Indians Awards 2024 for his transformative contributions to healthcare and community development in Nagaland.

The award was presented by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju during a ceremony held in Delhi on August 24, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to India through their unwavering dedication and selfless service.

The Amazing Indians Awards celebrate those who have overcome significant challenges to advance critical causes such as healthcare, women’s rights, animal welfare, and sustainability, reflecting the nation’s true spirit. The healthcare category honors individuals who have gone beyond professional obligations to make a significant impact on public health through various initiatives, including community and clinical health programs, innovative use of technology, free distribution of medicines, and other health-related services. The Grand Jury for the awards includes influential figures such as General Manoj Mukund Naravane, former Chief of the Army Staff; Sanjeev Sanyal, economist and member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister; Rajeev Chandrashekhar, BJP Leader and former MoS for Electronics & IT and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Prasoon Joshi, Chairman of McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific; and Renu Sud Karnad, Chairperson of GlaxoSmithKline and board member of HDFC Bank.

Rev. Dr. Chingmak’s journey began as a pastor, where he devoted himself to spiritual guidance and community service. In 1993, following a tragic incident where he performed the funeral of a baby who died from hunger, he and his wife, PhutoliShikhu, shifted from pastoral duties to community development, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. They co-founded ECS to address critical issues in Tuensang, a remote and underdeveloped district in India, including drug use, HIV/AIDS, and inadequate infrastructure.

ECS, which started as an NGO to support individuals struggling with substance dependence through a rehabilitation center called House of Hope, has expanded its reach significantly. The organization now operates in 84 villages across Tuensang, Mon, and Longleng,

impacting approximately 200 villages in total. ECS has set up primary healthcare centers run by local communities, improving access to medical care, including HIV/AIDS treatments. The organization has also been instrumental in building roads and bridges to enhance access to healthcare facilities and has promoted sanitation and personal hygiene practices.

Under Rev. Dr. Chingmak’s leadership, ECS has organized surgery camps, eye surgery camps, and health camps in collaboration with medical institutions and specialists. These efforts have been crucial in providing healthcare services to remote villages, including PHC Longpang in Tuensang. The eye surgery camps, in particular, have restored sight to many suffering from cataracts and other vision impairments, profoundly improving their quality of life.

A cornerstone of ECS’s community development strategy is the establishment of Self Help Groups (SHGs) aimed at empowering women in rural areas. These groups engage in income-generating activities, provide access to financial services, and offer training in entrepreneurship and financial management. By fostering economic stability and social cohesion, ECS’s SHGs have made a significant difference in the lives of many.

“The recognition is not just for me but for all the dedicated individuals who have tirelessly worked to make a difference in our communities,” Rev. Dr. Chingmak said. “Our mission has always been to serve those who are often overlooked, and this award is a testament to the impact of collective action.”

Rev. Dr. Chingmak’s work extends beyond healthcare to include peace and reconciliation efforts, addressing long-standing socio-political challenges. His advocacy for dialogue and understanding has contributed to a more cohesive society.

The Amazing Indians Award was presented to Rev. Dr. Chingmak for his contributions to healthcare and community development in remote regions of Nagaland.

Source: https://morungexpress.com/rev-dr-sipong-chingmak-honored-with-amazing-indians-award-for-social-work