AFMS and NIMHANS Join Hands to Enhance Mental Health Support for Armed Forces

New Delhi: In a landmark initiative to strengthen mental health care for India’s defense personnel, the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaborative research, training, and specialized mental health support.

The MoU was signed by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services, and Dr. Pratima Murthy, Director of NIMHANS, in a ceremony attended by senior officials from both institutions. This collaboration aims to enhance mental health services for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and their families by focusing on advanced psychiatric care, faculty exchange programs, and innovative training modules.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin emphasized that the mental well-being of soldiers is just as critical as their physical health. She highlighted that this partnership will ensure defense personnel receive the best possible support to manage stress, anxiety, and trauma associated with military service.

Dr. Pratima Murthy echoed similar sentiments, stating that NIMHANS is honored to bring its expertise in neuropsychiatry to the defense sector. She underscored the importance of providing world-class mental health care to those who dedicate their lives to serving the nation.

The collaboration will focus on research into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges faced by military personnel. It will also facilitate specialized training for medical professionals within the armed forces to strengthen mental health services at military hospitals and healthcare facilities.