In a positive development, the Jammu and Kashmir government has taken a big step to address mental health issues in the region. They approved the creation of a special Department of Mental Health.
Under the new rules, all psychiatric facilities and specialists in the area must register with this newly created body. This means that every aspect of mental health care in Jammu and Kashmir will be closely monitored and held to high standards.
The official announcement was made through a communication from the J&K Health and Medical Education Department. These rules are an outcome of the recently introduced Mental Health Act known as the Jammu and Kashmir Mental Health (Department of Mental Health) Rules, 2023. These rules will come into force as soon as they are published in the official gazette.
The new directorate of mental health will be headed by a special chairman and its selection committee will include prominent figures such as the heads of the Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar and GMC Jammu, as well as the Mission Director of the National Health Mission in J&K. This committee will be responsible for selection of non-official members of J&K Mental Health Authority.
Non-official members elected under these rules will serve for three years and will receive various allowances to ensure that the Authority can attract the best talent and experience.
According to the new rules, the Chief Executive Officer of the Directorate of Mental Health will be the Mission Director of the J&K National Health Mission. In addition, a senior MBBS doctor with a qualification in Healthcare Management or Hospital Administration will be appointed as Medical Advisor to the CEO, providing a solid foundation for effective leadership.
In addition, the Office of Mental Health will, with the approval of the Government, determine the number, roles and categories of officers and staff necessary for its smooth operation, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive mental health care.
These steps have been taken to ensure effective implementation of the Mental Health Act, 2017 in Jammu and Kashmir.