11 District hospitals in JK have no Psychiatrist posted to attend to patients: Govt Data
Jammu, Feb 5: The Jammu and Kashmir administration informed the Legislative Assembly on Thursday that mental health services are operational across the Union Territory, even as official data revealed a severe shortage of specialists, with 11 districts having no psychiatrist at all.
The Health Department, in a written reply to MLA Budgam Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, stated that the National Mental Health Programme and the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) are being implemented in all districts, with basic care available at every level.
The department 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.
However, an annexure to the reply revealed a stark deficit in human resources. 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 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.” (KNS)
