President of India Addresses Golden Jubilee Celebrations of NIMHANS, Bengaluru
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru recently celebrated its Golden Jubilee. The event was graced by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, along with prominent figures such as Shri J P Nadda, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, and Shri Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister of Karnataka. This celebration marked not only the institute’s achievements over the past fifty years but also its significant contributions to mental health care in India.
A Legacy of Excellence in Mental Health
During her address, President Murmu emphasized the importance of NIMHANS in the field of mental health. She stated, “This occasion is a moment of celebration for not only NIMHANS but for the entire country.” The President praised the dedication of the faculty, students, and administration, which has helped NIMHANS become a leader in mental health and neurosciences. She highlighted the institute’s long history, dating back to the 19th century, and its evolution alongside the development of mental healthcare in India.
The President also pointed out the innovative research and rigorous academic programs at NIMHANS. These initiatives have not only improved patient care but have also set benchmarks in mental health delivery. One notable example is the Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare, which has been instrumental in providing accessible mental health services. Furthermore, the Tele-MANAS platform, launched by NIMHANS, has reached nearly 70 lakh individuals across the country, offering support in various languages. This transformative service has garnered commendation from the President, who acknowledged the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s support for this initiative.
New Facilities to Enhance Mental Health Care
As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, several new facilities were inaugurated to further NIMHANS’ mission of providing cutting-edge care in mental health and neurosciences. Among these are the Psychiatry Speciality Block, Central Laboratory Complex, Bhima Hostel, Next Generation 3T MRI Scanner, and Advanced DSA System.
The Psychiatry Speciality Block aims to enhance care in specialized areas of mental health, including geriatric and perinatal psychiatry. It will provide tailored, multidisciplinary care to support patients on their recovery journey. The Central Laboratory Complex integrates five essential laboratory services, ensuring high-quality care for patients with complex neurological conditions. This facility is expected to foster research that could revolutionize treatments for these disorders.
The Bhima Hostel is designed to accommodate the growing number of students at NIMHANS, offering modern amenities for a conducive living environment. The new 3T MRI scanner represents the pinnacle of imaging technology, ensuring superior imaging quality for clinical use. Lastly, the Advanced DSA System will aid in diagnosing and managing various brain disorders, providing critical insights for effective treatment planning.
Recognition and Future Directions
President Murmu congratulated NIMHANS for receiving the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion from the World Health Organization. This recognition underscores the institution’s commitment to addressing contemporary mental health challenges. The President noted the increasing awareness of mental health issues and the role of initiatives like Tele-MANAS in encouraging individuals to seek help openly.
Shri J P Nadda, the Union Minister of Health, also spoke at the event, commending the faculty and students for elevating NIMHANS to a premier institute in India. He highlighted the significant increase in patient footfall at NIMHANS, which has grown more than fivefold over the past decades. Nadda emphasized the government’s commitment to mainstreaming mental health through the National Mental Health Programme and the TeleMANAS scheme, with NIMHANS serving as the apex coordinating center.
Shri Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, praised NIMHANS for its remarkable contributions to mental health and neurosciences. He noted that the institute has become a global leader in clinical care, research, and education, shaping mental health policies worldwide.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations of NIMHANS not only highlighted its past achievements but also set the stage for future advancements in mental health care. With new facilities and ongoing initiatives, NIMHANS continues to be a beacon of hope and excellence in the field of mental health in India and beyond.
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