India near redefining mental healthcare, say experts

India is on the verge of redefining mental healthcare, with the central government pushing for a convergence of modern medicine, traditional knowledge, and alternative therapies, experts said at a webinar on 'The Future of Integrative Mental Health' on Friday. The event was organised by Buddhi Clinic in association with The Hindu under the Wellness Series.

B.N. Gangadhar, a scientist with the Ministry of AYUSH and former director of NIMHANS, said research has shown that lifestyle practices like yoga help maintain mental fitness. He noted that the National Health Policy 2017 and the National Education Policy 2020 now recognise modern science alongside traditional Indian knowledge. The government is promoting integrative care by co-locating AYUSH facilities within public health centres and setting up collaborative departments at major hospitals such as AIIMS and NIMHANS.

Ennapadam S. Krishnamoorthy, founder of Buddhi Clinic, said combined treatment enhances quality of life, behaviour, sleep, and digestion. He added that integrative healthcare builds autonomy and places the person, not just the illness, at the centre of care. The speakers stressed that integration is not about replacing one system but converging neuroscience, psychiatry, and digital technology with yoga, ayurveda, and other traditional therapies.