Written by : Dr. Aishwarya Sarthe
March 20, 2025
The MoU, signed in Bengaluru, marks a strategic partnership to advance research, training, and academic cooperation between the two institutions.
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) to strengthen collaboration in mental health and neurosciences. The MoU, signed in Bengaluru, marks a strategic partnership aimed at advancing research, training, and academic cooperation between the two institutions.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of AFMS, signed the agreement alongside NIMHANS Director Dr Prathima Murthy.
According to an official statement from NIMHANS, "This landmark agreement aims to foster collaborative research and training in the fields of mental health and neurosciences, strengthening the partnership between the two premier institutions."
The agreement outlines a framework for joint academic initiatives, faculty exchange programs, and research projects to address critical healthcare challenges. By integrating military and civilian expertise in mental health and neurosciences, the collaboration is expected to facilitate advancements in patient care and scientific innovation.
As per NIMHANS, the partnership will focus on key areas such as forensic psychiatry, community psychiatry, primary care psychiatry, and state-of-the-art approaches to mental healthcare. The institutions will also explore funding opportunities from government agencies to support impactful research and training programs.
The MoU highlights a shared commitment to enhancing mental health services for both civilian populations and armed forces personnel. "This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing mental health services and fostering a robust healthcare system for both civilian and armed forces personnel," the statement added.