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Bengaluru, January 3, 2025—The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, marked a significant milestone today as she graced the golden jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru. Addressing the gathering, the President lauded the institute for its unparalleled contributions to mental health and neurosciences over the past fifty years.
In her address, President Murmu highlighted the transformative role of NIMHANS in mental healthcare. She praised its innovative research, rigorous academic programs, and exceptional patient care, which have established it as a global leader in the field. She specifically commended the institute’s groundbreaking initiatives such as the Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare, which has set a benchmark in the industry, and the Tele MANAS platform that leverages technology to provide accessible mental health services nationwide. “The 53 Tele MANAS cells across the country have served nearly 17 lakh people in their chosen language over the last two years,” she noted with pride.
The President acknowledged the societal progress in addressing mental health issues. “In the past, concerns surrounding mental health often lacked adequate attention in many societies. However, increasing awareness has dismantled unscientific beliefs and the stigma once associated with mental illnesses, enabling individuals to seek help more freely,” she remarked. She emphasized the urgency of such developments amidst the rising prevalence of mental health issues globally.
President Murmu expressed her appreciation for NIMHANS’ initiatives, including Tele MANAS, which facilitates round-the-clock counseling, and the SAMVAAD platform, aimed at addressing mental health challenges among children and adolescents. She praised these measures for creating avenues for individuals to openly share their concerns and seek timely support.
Drawing upon India’s rich spiritual heritage, the President emphasized the relevance of ancient wisdom in managing mental health. “Our scriptures teach us that the mind is at the root of everything we perceive. The integration of traditional methods such as Yoga with modern healthcare systems at NIMHANS exemplifies a holistic approach to alleviating mental and physical distress,” she said.
Concluding her address, the President underscored the importance of mental well-being in building a healthy society. She called upon mental health professionals to continue their mission with compassion, kindness, and wisdom, ensuring the highest quality of care in all circumstances. “A healthy mind is the foundation of a healthy society,” she affirmed.
The golden jubilee celebrations at NIMHANS served as a testament to its five-decade legacy of excellence and innovation, reaffirming its commitment to advancing mental healthcare and neurosciences for the betterment of society.
