Sehore: Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, unveiled the newly constructed Service Block of the National Institute of Mental Health and Rehabilitation (NIMHR). The inauguration ceremony, held in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, witnessed the convergence of esteemed dignitaries, signifying a significant leap forward in mental health care and rehabilitation services in India.
The NIMHR building, a long-awaited endeavor sanctioned in 2018, gained momentum after the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a steadfast commitment to improving mental health infrastructure, the Government of India has invested a total of Rs. 105 Crores into the construction of this state-of-the-art facility.
Joining Dr. Virendra Kumar in the inauguration were Narayan Singh Kushwah, Minister of Social Welfare, Madhya Pradesh Government, Sudesh Rai, MLA, Sehore, and other eminent dignitaries. In his address, Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the vision and efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to foster inclusivity and comfort for the Divyangjan community. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas,” underscoring the collaborative efforts between the central and state governments, as well as the indispensable role played by NGOs and civil societies in this endeavor.
The newly inaugurated institute is poised to offer comprehensive mental health and rehabilitation services to individuals from all corners of the country. Dr. Virendra Kumar announced significant collaborations with esteemed institutions such as NIMHANS, Bengaluru, and IBHAS, New Delhi, with further efforts underway to establish partnerships with AIIMS, Bhopal, and CIP, Ranchi.
Assuring full support from the state government, Narayan Singh Kushwah emphasized the importance of ensuring that the benefits of various central schemes reach Divyang beneficiaries. He expressed optimism about the collective efforts of governments and civil societies in fostering inclusivity and enhancing the lives of Divyangjans.
Addressing the gathering, Sudesh Rai, MLA, Sehore, lauded the efforts of Dr. Virendra Kumar in shaping the National Institute, which has not only provided a new identity to the city of Sehore but also stands as a beacon of hope for individuals in need of mental health care and rehabilitation services. He pledged unwavering support for the institute’s journey towards becoming a world-class institution.
Rajesh Yadav, Joint Secretary, DEPwD, New Delhi, Dr. Rama Rao Bhonsle, Commissioner, Social Welfare, Government of Madhya Pradesh, Sri Praveen Adayach, Collector, Sehore, and other officials from various government departments and organizations were also present.
The inauguration of NIMHR’s Service Block marks a significant step forward in India’s commitment to mental health care and rehabilitation. It represents a beacon of hope for individuals in need, ensuring that they receive the support and care they deserve.