Bengaluru: The National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has been honored with the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion, established by WHO in 2019, recognizes individuals, institutions, and organizations for their outstanding contributions to health promotion. This year, NIMHANS has been recognized for its remarkable achievements in promoting mental health and well-being.
Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated NIMHANS on receiving this distinguished award, stating, “It is a recognition of India’s efforts in inclusive healthcare.” Union Health Secretary Shri Apurva Chandra also expressed his happiness, highlighting the pioneering work in mental health that led to this recognition.
Dr. Pratima Murthy, Director of NIMHANS, expressed her pride and gratitude for the award, saying, “This award is not only a recognition of our past and present achievements but also a validation of the enduring legacy and vision that has guided NIMHANS since its inception. It reinforces our resolve to continue our mission of promoting mental health and well-being, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”
NIMHANS has been at the forefront of mental health and neurosciences, pioneering innovative approaches to research, education, and patient care. The institute has initiated and implemented advanced mental health programs addressing the needs of diverse populations. Its efforts in integrating mental health care into general health care, developing community-based strategies, and pioneering digital health interventions have garnered global recognition.
The award comes at a significant time for NIMHANS, as the institute celebrates 50 years of its formation and the 70th anniversary of its precursor, the All India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH). The accolade highlights the institute’s rich legacy and continuous evolution in the field of mental health and neurosciences.
India has made significant strides in mental health in recent years. Mental Health Units are now supported in almost all districts of the country through the National Health Mission. Additionally, India’s national tele-mental health helpline, Tele MANAS, launched on October 10, 2022, recently achieved the milestone of handling 1 million calls, underscoring the country’s commitment to accessible mental health care.
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