50 Years of NIMHANS

50 Years of NIMHANS Bengaluru – A Philatelic Tribute

The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, is a globally acclaimed centre of excellence in the fields of mental health and neurosciences. Tracing its roots back to 1847, when it began as the Bangalore Lunatic Asylum, the institution has undergone a remarkable journey of transformation and innovation. In 1925, it was renamed the Mysore State Mental Hospital, reflecting a new approach to mental healthcare in India. Alongside the Ranchi Mental Hospital, it was among the first purpose-built asylums of British India, designed to provide a healing environment for patients.

The Making of NIMHANS

A major milestone came in 1954, when the Government of India established the All India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH) on the recommendations of the Bhore Committee and Mental Health Advisory Committee. The merger of AIIMH with the Mysore State Mental Hospital in 1974 gave birth to NIMHANS Bengaluru, integrating mental health and neurosciences under one roof.

Over the years, NIMHANS grew from being a specialized hospital into a world-renowned institute of care, education, and research. Today, it draws patients not only from across India but also from neighbouring countries.

Excellence in Care and Research

Spread over 135 acres, NIMHANS serves over half a million patients every year, offering advanced inpatient care, rehabilitation services, and more than 20 specialty clinics. Its 1000-bed NABH-accredited hospital includes cutting-edge diagnostic facilities, emergency care units, neurosurgical departments, and a seven-storey Sub-Speciality Block with world-class operating theatres.

NIMHANS is also a leader in medical research, with pioneering work in areas such as:

• Addiction studies
• Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders
• Brain imaging and deep brain stimulation
• Head injury and trauma care
• Pain management and rehabilitation

Collaborating with leading national and international institutions, NIMHANS has contributed to breakthroughs in molecular genetics, youth mental health, and even holistic approaches like yoga therapy.

A Global Hub of Education

Recognized as a premier training centre, NIMHANS Bengaluru offers more than 90 advanced programs including MCh, DM, MD, MPhil, MSc, postdoctoral fellowships, and diplomas. Students from across India and abroad are drawn here, making it a global destination for mental health and neuroscience education.

Shaping National Mental Health Policy

Beyond patient care and academics, NIMHANS has played a key role in shaping India’s mental health policy. Its pioneering Bellary Model of Care laid the foundation for the District Mental Health Programme, expanding mental health access nationwide. Today, as the nodal centre for Tele MANAS, NIMHANS is bringing tele-mental health services to people across the country, making care more accessible than ever.

Recognition and Legacy

NIMHANS has been recognised as a Deemed University (1994) and an Institute of National Importance (2012). It was also the first such institute to be accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), a testament to its commitment to excellence. Consistently ranked among India’s top medical institutions, NIMHANS remains a beacon of progress in patient care, research, and education.

Through this philatelic tribute, India Post salutes NIMHANS Bengaluru for its transformative contributions to mental healthcare and its profound impact on millions of lives.