Bengaluru: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister and BJP President J.P. Nadda emphasized the government's commitment to mainstreaming mental health in India during the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru on Friday.
As per IANS, Nadda praised NIMHANS for its exceptional contribution to mental healthcare, noting that the institute conducts around 21 lakh lab investigations annually and attracts patients from across the country. "This demonstrates the care and quality services ensured at NIMHANS," he said, adding that it ranks among the top 200 hospitals globally.
Nadda also highlighted the institute's recognition as one of the first to receive NABH accreditation, a testament to its superior patient care. He applauded its evolution from a mental hospital to an institute of national importance, acknowledging five decades of dedicated efforts.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the government launched the National Mental Health Programme in 2022. As part of this initiative, Nadda noted that efforts are being made to refocus mental health as a priority and position India as a leader in mental healthcare.
Inputs from IANS reveal that Nadda underscored the importance of addressing human resource challenges in the sector. He highlighted the introduction of Tele Manas, which currently has 53 centres across India and has trained 2,000 counsellors to provide support in 20 languages. Over 1,000 students are trained annually for the program at NIMHANS.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commended NIMHANS for its legacy, which began with the integration of the Mysore Government Mental Hospital and the All India Institute of Mental Health. "Over five decades, NIMHANS has emerged as a symbol of excellence, addressing stigma, advancing holistic care, and shaping mental health policies," he said, according to IANS.
Inputs from IANS also revealed that the Karnataka government collaborates closely with NIMHANS, allocating Rs 137 crore annually for its operational expenses, reflecting a steadfast commitment to enhancing mental health services.
Minister for Medical Education Sharan Prakash Patil assured full government support, emphasizing increased funding for research and outreach programs to underserved regions.
The event was attended by BJP MPs CN Manjunath, PC Mohan, and Tejasvi Surya, along with NIMHANS Director Pratima Murthy and others.