Tele-MANAS Reaches 47.75 Lakh Calls, Expands Mental Healthcare Access Across India

As of October 2026, the service has received over 47,75,644 calls and operates through 53 Tele-MANAS cells across all 36 States and Union Territories.

India’s national tele-mental health service, Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States), has reached 47,75,644 calls since its launch on 10 October 2022, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

As of October 2026, the service has received 47,75,644 calls and operates through 53 Tele-MANAS cells across all 36 States and Union Territories.

The programme is jointly monitored by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), which serves as the nodal institution for the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP).

The service provides support for concerns including emotional distress, anxiety, stress and sleep-related issues, while also facilitating referrals to specialised mental health professionals and other healthcare services when required.

The ministry said the telephone-based model is particularly relevant for people in rural, remote and underserved areas, where access to specialised mental healthcare can be limited.

Its multilingual services and 24x7 availability are intended to make support more accessible while advancing early help-seeking.

The Ministry reported that from 13,35,275 recorded caller profiles, women accounted for 43.78 per cent, or 5,84,587 callers, while men accounted for 54.18 per cent, or 7,23,427 callers.

The service has also witnessed significant engagement among young and working-age populations, with individuals aged 18-45 years accounting for 73.2% of recorded caller profiles.

The range of concerns reported by callers includes emotional distress, stress related to examinations, workplaces, and relationships, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

By providing a platform for individuals to speak openly, receive guidance, and be connected to appropriate services, Tele-MANAS aims to promote greater recognition of mental health as an integral part of overall health and well-being.

Alongside Tele-MANAS, the government is expanding mental health services through the National Mental Health Programme and the District Mental Health Programme, which has been sanctioned for implementation in 767 districts.

Mental health services have also been integrated into more than 1.83 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, supporting screening, early identification, counselling, follow-up and referrals.

Further, the Ministry has also advanced MANN Jaagriti, a community awareness initiative aimed at improving mental health literacy, addressing stigma and encouraging people to seek support early.

The programme envisages engagement through schools, colleges, workplaces, healthcare facilities and community platforms.

According to the Union Health Ministry, these initiatives are intended to create a continuum connecting community awareness, primary healthcare, district-level services and digital counselling.

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