NIMHANS, Karnataka prisons sign MoU to strengthen inmates’ mental healthcare

The Department of Prisons and Correctional Services in Karnataka has partnered with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru to bolster mental healthcare and research for incarcerated individuals. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to provide evidence-based psychological support, including assessments, therapy, counseling, and rehabilitative care for prisoners.

Specialized workshops will be held to improve psychological well-being in correctional facilities, and the MoU includes plans to raise awareness about mental health, conduct sensitization programs, and introduce periodic psychosocial training focused on suicide prevention and substance abuse. The collaboration also seeks to enhance existing Tele-MANAS services, improve communication between inmates and their families, and facilitate authorized research by NIMHANS PhD scholars, all in accordance with ethical, legal, and administrative guidelines.