Centre Allocates Over Rs. 230 Crore for National Tele Mental Health Programme Since 2022
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Synopsis
The Indian government has allocated more than Rs 230 crore for the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) since its inception in 2022. This initiative is aimed at enhancing mental health services across the nation, offering 24/7 tele-counseling through Tele-MANAS Cells.
Key Takeaways
- Over Rs 230 crore allocated for NTMHP since 2022.
- NTMHP provides universal access to mental health care.
- Tele-MANAS Cells have handled over 20,05,000 calls.
- 36 States/UTs have established 53 Tele-MANAS Cells.
- Tele-mental health services available in 20 languages.
New Delhi, April 4 (NationPress) The Centre on Friday announced in the Parliament that it has allocated over Rs 230 crore for the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) over the past three years.
Initiated on October 10, 2022, NTMHP serves as the digital extension of the District Mental Health Programme, ensuring universal access to equitable, accessible, affordable, and quality mental health care.
The Tele-MANAS Cells, which operate under NTMHP, offer 24x7 tele-mental health counselling services through a toll-free number (14416) established nationwide, have managed to field over 20,05,000 calls, according to Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav.
As of April 1, 36 States/UTs have launched 53 Tele-MANAS Cells. These services are available in 20 languages as per the preferences of the States. More than 20,05,000 calls have been received on the helpline, stated Jadhav in a written response to the Lok Sabha.
“The government has allocated over Rs. 230 crore for NTMHP in the last three years,” he mentioned.
The MoS emphasized that NTMHP seeks to significantly enhance the accessibility of mental health services across India by establishing a 24x7 tele-mental health facility in every State and UT.
The initiative also intends to create a comprehensive mental health service network that not only offers counselling but also integrates medical and psychosocial interventions for vulnerable groups.
In this regard, a dedicated Tele-MANAS Cell has been set up at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, to provide tele-mental health support to all Armed Forces personnel and their dependents.
Moreover, Jadhav highlighted that the Government is actively working on enhancing mental healthcare services at the primary healthcare level.
“Over 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs,” he noted.
Mental health services have also been incorporated into the service packages offered under Comprehensive Primary Health Care at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
