Bengaluru: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, commending its pivotal role in advancing mental health and neurosciences in India. The event saw the presence of Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Key Highlights of the Address
- Recognition of Excellence:
- President Murmu celebrated NIMHANS’ dedication to mental health, research, and patient care, which have positioned it as a leader in the field.
- She lauded the institution for receiving the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion from the WHO, recognizing its efforts in addressing contemporary mental health challenges.
- Innovative Initiatives:
- The Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare by NIMHANS was acknowledged for setting benchmarks in mental health delivery.
- The Tele-MANAS platform, operational in 53 centers across India, has provided mental health support to nearly 70 lakh people in their preferred languages over the past two years.
- Integration of Traditional and Modern Practices:
- NIMHANS was praised for integrating traditional practices such as yoga and Ayurveda with modern healthcare to alleviate mental and physical distress.
- Gender Representation:
- President Murmu highlighted the positive gender ratio at NIMHANS, with women constituting 79.7% of undergraduate and 71.4% of postgraduate students.
- New Facilities:
- As part of the celebrations, several new facilities were inaugurated, including:
- Psychiatry Speciality Block.
- Central Laboratory Complex.
- Bhima Hostel.
- Next Generation 3T MRI Scanner.
- Advanced DSA System.
- As part of the celebrations, several new facilities were inaugurated, including:
Remarks by Other Dignitaries
- Union Health Minister JP Nadda:
- Applauded NIMHANS for its transformation into an Institute of National Importance.
- Noted the increase in patient footfall from under 10 lakhs in the 1970s to over 50 lakhs in the last decade.
- Highlighted the role of NIMHANS as the apex coordinating center for the Tele-MANAS scheme, which trains over 1,000 students in telehealth and counseling annually.
- Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah:
- Emphasized NIMHANS’ contributions over five decades as a global leader in clinical care, research, and education.
- Recognized its role in shaping mental health policies and inspiring best practices worldwide.
NIMHANS’ Legacy
- Established in the 19th century, NIMHANS has played a crucial role in the evolution of mental healthcare in India.
- It is the first NABH-accredited hospital among Institutes of National Importance and is ranked among the top 200 hospitals globally.
The event underscored NIMHANS’ commitment to addressing mental health challenges and its vision for shaping a more inclusive and effective mental healthcare system.
