Nimhans model for mental health worth emulating: President Droupadi Murmu

The President highlighted that earlier mental health did not receive the attention it deserved in many societies. However, she added that the awareness about mental health issues has been steadily rising. “The dispelling of unscientific beliefs and the reduction of stigma associated with mental illness are significant and welcome developments. This is especially crucial at this juncture, as various mental health issues are reaching epidemic proportions globally,” said Murmu.

She also stated that the Covid-19 pandemic and other global trends have triggered a sharp increase in mental health concerns, affecting people across all age groups.

“…young students grapple with uncertainty in their studies due to social pressures; professionals encounter stress in their work environments, the elderly experience loneliness due to social isolation and women, often burdened with domestic responsibilities and caregiving roles, are particularly prone to mental illnesses, many of which go unnoticed,” Murmu said.

However, she expressed optimism about increasing willingness to address these issues through mechanisms such as the Union Health Ministry’s Tele-MANAS program and multiple digital platforms.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who was also present during the event stated that the Tele-MANAS program has benefitted around 1.7 million people in the state. “To ensure equitable access to services for urban and rural populations, the state government has integrated mental health into primary healthcare systems. An annual allocation of Rs 137 crore for Nimhans demonstrates our commitment to its functioning,” Siddaramaiah said.

The President Friday also inaugurated the KLE Cancer Hospital at Belagavi during her day-long visit to Karnataka.

Several cutting-edge facilities aimed at advancing mental health and neurological care were also inaugurated at Nimhans to mark its golden jubilee year.

Psychiatry Speciality Block

A new Psychiatry Speciality Block has been launched to provide comprehensive and specialised care in mental health. The facility focuses on geriatric psychiatry, perinatal psychiatry, and services for individuals with severe mental disorders. It also includes suicide prevention programs. Designed to offer multidisciplinary and holistic care, the centre aims to support recovery, rehabilitation, and capacity building for mental health professionals nationwide.

Central Laboratory Complex

The Central Laboratory Complex is a state-of-the-art facility that integrates five essential services: Neuropathology, Neurochemistry, Clinical Pathology & Haematology, Neuromicrobiology, and Neurovirology. By consolidating these labs under one roof, the institute enhances precision diagnostics for neurological and neurosurgical conditions. This facility is expected to drive innovations in diagnosis and treatment globally.

Bhima Hostel

To accommodate its growing student population, Nimhans unveiled the Bhima Hostel. This modern residential facility includes a basement, ground floor, and six upper floors equipped with contemporary amenities, ensuring a conducive living environment for students pursuing advanced studies in mental health and neuroscience.

Next-Generation 3T MRI Scanner

The institute introduced India’s most advanced 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner for clinical use. This next-generation system features cutting-edge technologies such as an improved gradient system, high slew rates, and an AI-based reconstruction platform. It promises faster scan throughput without compromising imaging quality, enhancing diagnostic precision.

Advanced DSA System

A biplane Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) system has also been set up to bolster Nimhans’s capabilities in diagnosing and treating brain disorders. Equipped with advanced features like cone beam CT and 3D rotational angiography, the system enables detailed visualisation of brain blood vessels, critical for managing complex neurological conditions.