The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru received the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare from the World Health Organization (WHO). NIMHANS was nominated for its exceptional work in mental health this year as it has been the lead of mental health and neurosciences, along with advocating innovative approaches to education, patient care and research.
The institute has executed progressive mental health programs that can serve diverse populations. It gained global recognition for its efforts to merge mental health care into general health care, pioneered digital health interventions and developed community-based strategies.
WHO introduced The Nelson Mandela Award in 2019 for Health Promotion. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the award recognizes governmental or non-governmental organizations, individuals and institutions that have remarkable contributions to health promotion, in a press release.
Director of NIMHANS Pratima Murthy received the award in Geneva. She said, “We are immensely proud to receive the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion at this juncture of our institutional journey. 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”
Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister, congratulated NIMHANS for the award. He started it as “a recognition of India’s efforts in inclusive healthcare”. Union Health Secretary, Apurva Chandra, expressed his happiness and congratulated NIMHANS for the recognition of India’s efforts and pioneering work in the field of mental health. Additional Secretary of the Union Health Ministry, Hekali Zhimomi was present on the occasion too.
NIMHANS received the award at a significant time as the All India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH) celebrates its 70th anniversary and NIMHANS celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. This dual milestone brightens up the institute’s legacy in mental health and neurosciences.
Read More: How is India Responding to the Mental Health Burden?
References +
- DHNS, & DHNS. (2024, May 31). Nimhans receives WHO Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion 2024. Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/nimhans-receives-who-nelson-mandela-award-for-health-promotion-2024-3047322
- Ani. (2024, June 1). NIMHANS Institute Receives Nelson Mandela Award from WHO. The Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/nimhans-institute-receives-nelson-mandela-award-from-who/articleshow/110610658.cms
