New Mental Health and Neuroscience Institutes Announced in State Budget
Karnataka: After a long wait, Karnataka is set to establish two institutes modeled on the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Mysore and Kalaburagi. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made the announcement during the state budget session on Friday.
New Institutes to Improve Access to Neurological Care
The institutes will be developed at a cost of ₹100 crore each. In Mysore, the NIMHANS-modelled institute will be set up at the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI), under the Department of Medical Education (DME).
Speaking to The Hindu, MMCRI Dean and Director K.R. Dakshayani stated that the institute would greatly benefit patients from Mysore and nearby districts, as many critical neurological cases are currently referred to NIMHANS in Bengaluru. With this new facility, such cases can be treated locally.
Regional Endocrinology Centres Also Planned
In addition to the NIMHANS-modelled institutes, Karnataka will also establish regional endocrinology centres in Mysore and Kalaburagi, with an investment of ₹100 crore. The centre in Mysore will be set up at MMCRI and will function under the DME.
Dr. Dakshayani highlighted the rising cases of hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, and diabetes, stating that the new centres will provide much-needed care for these conditions.
Other Healthcare Projects in Progress
Several other healthcare projects are also underway, including:
- Upgrading the community health centre at Tagadur village to a 100-bed hospital.
- Constructing a 400-bed hospital in Virajpet.
- Building a taluka hospital in the newly established Kushalnagar taluka.
These initiatives aim to improve healthcare accessibility and infrastructure across Karnataka.
