New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu commemorated the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru today, praising the institution’s leadership in mental health and neurosciences, a PIB press release stated.
During her address, President Murmu highlighted NIMHANS’s innovative research, rigorous academic programs, and exceptional patient care as key factors in its success. She specifically commended the Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare and the Tele MANAS platform, which provides remote counseling services. Tele MANAS, with its 53 centers across India, has already helped nearly 17 lakh people in their preferred language over the past two years.
The President also noted the growing global awareness of mental health issues, contrasting it with the historical stigma associated with mental illness. This increased awareness, she stated, has made it easier for individuals to seek help for mental health challenges. This is especially important as mental health issues are taking on epidemic proportions around the world.
President Murmu commended NIMHANS for its initiatives like Tele MANAS and SAMVAAD, a platform addressing child and adolescent mental health. She further emphasized the importance of integrating traditional Indian practices like yoga with modern healthcare systems to effectively address mental and physical distress.
The President concluded by stating that a healthy mind is crucial for a healthy society. She expressed confidence in the ability of NIMHANS’s doctors and mental healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care to all.