President Murmu Honors NIMHANS for Transformative Role in Mental Health Care
Bengaluru, January 4, 2025 – In a resounding affirmation of the progress made in mental health care, President Droupadi Murmu praised the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) during its Golden Jubilee celebrations on Friday. Highlighting the institute’s influential role in advancing mental health awareness and treatment, the President underscored the collective dedication of faculty, students, and staff, emphasizing that their commitment has set benchmarks within the healthcare system.
"This occasion is a moment of celebration for not only NIMHANS but for the entire country," President Murmu stated, reflecting on the institute’s journey that dates back to the nineteenth century. She praised NIMHANS as a leader in mental health, driven by innovative research and comprehensive patient care. The renowned Bellary model of community-based mental healthcare was mentioned as a transformative approach that has redefined service delivery in this critical area.
A noteworthy mention was the Tele-MANAS platform, launched by NIMHANS, which has successfully provided support to nearly 7 million individuals across the country in the past two years. President Murmu commended this initiative, along with the support from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, for fostering a culture of open dialogue around mental health—a principle echoed in the biblical call to love and support one another (Galatians 6:2).
Moreover, NIMHANS has recently been honored with the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion from the World Health Organization, validating its commitment to addressing pressing mental health challenges. The President also highlighted collaborations in child and adolescent mental health, genetic research, and neurodegenerative disorders, stating that NIMHANS represents an exemplary amalgamation of modern and traditional healthcare practices, including yoga and Ayurveda.
As she noted the gender demographics within NIMHANS, where 79.7% of undergraduate and 71.4% of postgraduate students are women, President Murmu further encouraged diversity and inclusivity within the mental health field.
In alluding to the growing awareness around mental health, President Murmu remarked, "NIMHANS has been at the forefront of addressing these concerns," akin to Christ’s teachings on compassion and understanding towards those in distress (Matthew 11:28-30).
This call to action resonates powerfully, reminding us of our shared responsibility to care for one another, in alignment with the scriptural imperative to bear one another’s burdens.
As we contemplate the President’s words, let’s remember that every step towards improving mental health care is a step towards embodying the love and compassion that is central to the message of unity and support found in the teachings of Jesus.
Encouraging Takeaway: Let us reflect on our own contributions to the dialogue around mental well-being and consider how we might offer support to those seeking help. By embracing the principles of empathy and community, we can create an environment where mental health concerns are addressed not just in medical terms, but with the heart of solidarity that our faith encourages.
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