ISRO chief S Somanath speaks at the convocation ceremony in NIMHANS.
Credit: NIMHANS
Bengaluru: The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) could play a pivotal role in tryin to address mental issues and providing solutions for the psychological well-being of those in space, suggested S Somanath, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman on Thursday.
He said this while delivering the convocation address at the 27th Convocation NIMHANS, where a total of 572 students received their degrees, including 101 students in absentia and 39 meritorious graduates who received medals of excellence in their specialisations.
Reflecting on humanity's space achievements, he drew parallels between space and human thought, encouraging listeners to reflect on the possibilities they can unlock through their minds.
Human-machine interaction in both space and medicine, the need for interdisciplinary expertise, and combining specialization with broad knowledge are key to solve complex problems, he noted.
Attributing the stress faced by the current generation in part to technological advancements, he also called for focused research on stress management and improving mental resilience.
Union health minister and president of NIMHANS, J P Nadda, in a recorded message, called on the graduates to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation and strive to provide "the best possible evidence-based care".
Emphasizing the need for accessible mental healthcare for all, Dr Sharan Prakash Patil, minister for medical education and skill development and vice-president, Nimhans, urged graduates to devote their careers to serve people with dedication and compassion.
Lauding the graduates, he said, "Your journey as a healthcare professional is not just about individual achievement but about collective responsibility to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who are vulnerable".
Besides commending NIMHANS for its initiatives to advance mental health services, he also highlighted the government's Karnataka Brain Health Initiative (KaBHI), through which neurological services are accessible through district-level brain health clinics. He assured that the hub-and-spoke model for acute stroke and neurotrauma care will be expanded to other medical colleges across the state soon.