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A specialized Tele-MANAS Cell has been set up at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune, backed by the Union Health Ministry. Today, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, inaugurated this cell, joined by Ms. Indrani Kaushal from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Dr. Pratima Murthy, Director of NIMHANS. Serving as an extension of the Ministry’s Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States initiative, this cell is primed to support mental health care.
The Tele MANAS initiative, a part of India’s National Tele Mental Health Programme, was announced during the Union Budget on February 1, 2022. Its digital launch took place as an extension of the District Mental Health Programme by the Governor of Karnataka at the World Mental Health Day ceremony held at NIMHANS on October 10, 2022. Envisioned as a round-the-clock tele-mental health facility, Tele MANAS operates through a toll-free number, 14416, available in each State and UT.
Recognizing the unique stressors faced by the Indian military, the Government is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare to Armed Forces beneficiaries. The complexities of the operational environment, cultural challenges, and specific stressors due to regional conflicts necessitate a specialized approach to mental health care for the Armed Forces. Addressing mental health and well-being among service personnel and their families is a recognized priority. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare extended technical support to establish the Tele MANAS cell, understanding the specific psychological challenges faced by armed forces personnel.
Currently, there are 46 functional Tele MANAS cells operating across 34 States/UTs under the National Tele Mental Health Programme. These services are available in 20 different languages. Since its launch in October 2022, the Tele MANAS helpline has received over 470,000 calls and manages more than 2,000 calls daily, showcasing its significant outreach and impact.
