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New Delhi, 1 August 2025:
The Indian government has made significant strides in strengthening the country’s mental healthcare infrastructure through the ongoing implementation of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP). According to a statement presented by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, in the Lok Sabha, targeted initiatives now span across urban and rural areas to close existing treatment gaps and reduce stigma.
Expansion of District Mental Health Services
The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), a major NMHP component, is now operational in 767 districts. Through the support of the National Health Mission, districts benefit from enhanced Community Health Centres (CHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC), offering outpatient services, diagnostic assessment, counseling, ongoing care for severe mental disorders, medication distribution, and outreach initiatives. Notably, district-level facilities include 10-bed in-patient wards dedicated to mental health.
Boost to Tertiary Care and Training
In an effort to increase the number of skilled mental health professionals and fortify tertiary treatment, the government has sanctioned 25 Centres of Excellence nationwide. These centers are designed to boost intake at postgraduate departments focusing on mental health specialties. Simultaneously, 19 government medical colleges have been equipped to strengthen 47 postgraduate mental health departments.
The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) reports that 69 institutions and universities now offer advanced programs in Clinical Psychology, while nine provide specialized courses in Rehabilitation Psychology. In 2024, new undergraduate and master’s programs were added, broadening pathways for aspiring mental health professionals. Additionally, online and digital training platforms are providing upskilling opportunities for medical and paramedical staff working in underserved regions.
Integrated Services and Awareness Campaigns
More than 177,000 Sub Health Centres and Primary Health Centres have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, where comprehensive packages now include mental health services. Operational guidelines and training manuals for various cadres have been released to ensure quality care for Mental, Neurological, and substance use (MNS) disorders.
Awareness-generation activities—including Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns—remain integral. Schools, workplaces, and communities are regularly engaged in programs focused on life skills, workplace stress, suicide prevention, and stigma reduction.
Digital Outreach and Tele-Mental Health
A key advancement in recent years is the “National Tele Mental Health Programme,” launched on 10 October 2022. As of 17 July 2025, tele-mental health services are accessible in 36 States and Union Territories through 53 Tele MANAS Cells. These centers have collectively handled over 2.38 million helpline calls, providing vital support to those in need.
On World Mental Health Day 2024, the Tele MANAS Mobile Application was launched, offering a comprehensive digital platform for mental health support—including both audio and video consultations, catering to a broad spectrum of issues ranging from general well-being to complex disorders.
“These collective efforts reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the availability, accessibility, and quality of mental healthcare services, aiming to create an inclusive public health system that addresses both preventative and treatment needs,” stated Shri Prataprao Jadhav in his parliamentary reply.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official information released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Delhi, dated 1 August 2025. For the latest updates, please refer to announcements from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare or authorized government channels.
