Leimapokpam Ranjita Devi: Manipur’s Beacon of Compassion and Excellence in Nursing
Quick Summary
On May 30, 2025, Leimapokpam Ranjita Devi, a Senior Nursing Officer at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal, Manipur, was honored with the prestigious National Florence Nightingale Award by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to critical care, nursing innovation, and community welfare. Ranjita’s dedication, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and her pioneering role in Manipur’s first kidney transplant program, underscores her commitment to advancing healthcare in the region.
Celebrating a Lifelong Commitment to Nursing Excellence
1. A Journey Rooted in Service
Leimapokpam Ranjita Devi embarked on her nursing career in 2006 at JNIMS, Imphal. Over nearly two decades, she has become a cornerstone of the institution, known for her unwavering dedication to patient care and her proactive approach to healthcare challenges. Her commitment extends beyond the hospital walls, reaching into the heart of communities across Manipur.
2. Innovating Amidst Crisis: The COVID-19 Response
During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ranjita emerged as a leader in crisis management. She spearheaded training programs for staff nurses on PPE protocols, ICU care, and patient management. Her development of simplified monitoring charts enhanced patient safety and streamlined documentation processes. These innovations were crucial in managing the pandemic’s impact within JNIMS and set new standards for critical care in the region.
3. Pioneering Transplant Care in Manipur
Ranjita played an instrumental role in establishing Manipur’s first kidney transplant program within a government hospital. Her leadership in operating theatre preparations and postoperative care contributed to the successful completion of 50 kidney transplants, including four cadaveric procedures. This milestone not only advanced medical capabilities in the state but also provided hope to countless patients requiring specialized care.
4. Extending Compassion Beyond the Hospital
Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Ranjita has been deeply involved in community outreach. She and her husband often traveled on a scooter to provide palliative care to patients in remote villages, offering comfort and medical assistance to those in need. Her efforts in diabetes awareness and palliative care have significantly improved health outcomes in underserved areas.
5. Recognition and Impact
Ranjita’s exemplary service has garnered recognition at both state and national levels. In 2022, she received special acknowledgment from the Chief Minister of Manipur during the 76th Independence Day celebrations for her contributions to the state’s healthcare advancements. Her recent receipt of the National Florence Nightingale Award further cements her status as a trailblazer in nursing.
FAQs
Q1: What is the National Florence Nightingale Award?
A: Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the award honors exceptional nursing professionals for their dedication, compassion, and contributions to healthcare.
Q2: How did Ranjita contribute during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: She led training initiatives on PPE usage, ICU care, and patient management, and developed monitoring tools to enhance patient safety at JNIMS
Q3: What was Ranjita’s role in Manipur’s kidney transplant program?
A: She was pivotal in preparing the operating theatre and postoperative care protocols, leading to the successful completion of 50 kidney transplants in the state
Q4: How has Ranjita impacted community health in Manipur?
A: She provided palliative care in remote villages and conducted awareness programs on diabetes and other health issues, improving healthcare access in underserved areas
Q5: What other recognitions has Ranjita received?
A: In addition to the National Florence Nightingale Award, she was honored by the Chief Minister of Manipur in 2022 for her contributions to the state’s healthcare system.
