Govt data reveals 11 J&K districts without psychiatrist

STC NEWS DESK
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 05 (STC): Jammu and Kashmir is facing a stark deficit in human resources in mental health services. According to National Health Mission data, districts including Shopian, Bandipora, Kupwara, Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban, Kishtwar, and Reasi do not have a single psychiatrist posted.
The total number of mental health professionals across all categories stands at just 65 for the entire Union Territory.
Key government claims include that the DMHP is functional in every district, addiction treatment facilities are available in all districts, and regular training is provided for teachers and frontline workers. On Supreme Court compliance, the Health Department stated it has provided necessary inputs to the School Education Department regarding directions from the Sukdeb Saha case (July 2025), thereby discharging its responsibility.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration informed the Legislative Assembly about this today. It informed that mental health services are operational across the Union Territory n a written reply to MLA Budgam Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi.
The reply highlighted the rollout of digital initiatives—including the 24/7 Tele MANAS helpline (14416) and tele-psychiatry consultations—as part of efforts to broaden access. Awareness programs in schools and colleges aim to equip teachers to identify early signs of mental distress and substance abuse among students.
The reply listed several awareness activities, including the observation of World Suicide Prevention Week (September 10–16, 2025) and a World Health Day lecture on stress management. A UNICEF-aided Child Psychology Section has been operational for three years.
Regarding the involvement of NGOs, the government stated that community-based activities are “primarily conducted through the public health system,” with civil society organizations engaged only “whenever required.”
(Straight Talk Communications)