J.P. Nadda: Advancing the Integration of Mental Health in India

Bengaluru, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister and BJP President, J.P. Nadda, remarked on Friday that strides are being made to integrate mental health into the core of healthcare in the nation.

He made this statement during a speech at the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, held in the institute's auditorium.

Minister Nadda expressed, "I am pleased to note that NIMHANS is delivering mental healthcare to millions, with a growing number of patients. Approximately 21 lakh lab tests are carried out each year, and individuals travel from all parts of the country to visit the facility. This highlights the care and quality services provided by NIMHANS."

He further emphasized that NIMHANS is recognized among the top 200 hospitals globally.

"This institution is one of the first of national significance to receive NABH accreditation, which reflects the excellence in patient care it offers," Nadda remarked while commending the hospital.

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union government launched the National Mental Health Programme in 2022.

"As part of this initiative, we are redirecting our focus to integrate mental health and establish the country as a premier service provider in this domain," Union Minister Nadda added.

"We recognize that both infrastructure and human resources are limited. These constraints must be addressed to ensure that India becomes a leading provider of mental healthcare. A significant step in this direction is the launch of Tele Manas. Presently, there are 53 centers across India, and NIMHANS has trained 2,000 counselors. Considering India's diversity, counseling is available in 20 different languages, facilitating prompt and effective communication," he stated.

"Every year, more than 1,000 students receive training for Tele Manas at NIMHANS. I assure the President that NIMHANS will adhere to her guidance as we progress," he added.

"As we mark 50 years of NIMHANS, it's a time for celebration but also a moment to set a new course and reflect. We must craft a vision for the next 25 years," he said.

"This occasion is one of celebration and immense pride. Over these five decades, NIMHANS has transitioned from a mental hospital to a nationally significant institute. While summarizing this achievement may seem straightforward, we must honor the relentless journey over these fifty years, the commitment of dedicated individuals, and the collective efforts that brought us here. We pay tribute to all of them today," Union Minister Nadda stated.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked, "Over the last fifty years, NIMHANS has emerged as a beacon of excellence and hope, contributing significantly to mental health and neurosciences in India and beyond."

"The legacy of NIMHANS started with the unification of the Mysore Government Mental Hospital and the All India Institute of Mental Health, establishing India’s first institution focused on mental health education. Throughout its journey as an Institute of National Importance, NIMHANS has become a global frontrunner in clinical care, research, and education, influencing mental health policies and practices worldwide," the Chief Minister noted.

The institute's groundbreaking work has revolutionized mental health care, tackling crucial issues such as stigma, policy integration, and comprehensive patient care. Its accomplishments in neurological care, including innovative treatments for strokes and traumatic brain injuries, underscore its commitment to elevating healthcare standards, he stated.

"The Karnataka government is immensely proud to host such a significant institution and collaborates closely with NIMHANS to improve mental health services across the state. Our partnership encompasses various initiatives, ensuring that mental healthcare extends to every region of Karnataka," Siddaramaiah emphasized.

Financial backing for NIMHANS has been prioritized, with Rs 137 crore allocated annually to support salaries and operational expenses, signifying our unwavering commitment, he stated.

Minister for Medical Education, Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood, Sharan Prakash Patil, mentioned that NIMHANS stands out as a center offering advanced research, superior care, compassion, and concern.

"As the Minister for Medical Education, I fully endorse all initiatives of NIMHANS. Our government is dedicated to increasing funding for research and infrastructure, fostering collaborations with international institutions, and extending mental health services to underserved areas through specialized outreach programs," Patil commented.

He encouraged students and young professionals to draw inspiration from this legacy, stressing the necessity to perpetuate the values of innovation, compassion, unwavering dedication, and foresight.

BJP MPs—CN Manjunath, PC Mohan, Tejasvi Surya, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, and NIMHANS Director Pratima Murthy, among others, were in attendance.