(a) whether Government is cognizant of the declaration made by World Health Organisation (WHO) that India is the most depressed country of the world;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has ascertained the reasons in this regard;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government for successful implementation of Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 enacted to ensure effective care of mental health of citizens of the country?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(DR. BHARATI PRAVIN PAWAR)
(a) to (d): As per the World Health Organization’s Report “Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders – Global Health Estimates” released in 2017, the estimated prevalence of depressive disorders in India is 4.5% of the total population which is not the highest in the world. Further, as per the National Mental Health Survey report released on 26th December, 2016, by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, the prevalence of depressive disorders in India is estimated to be 2.7% of the total population.
(e): The primary responsibility of implementation of provisions of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 is of the States/UTs. Department of Health and Family Welfare has sent multiple communications to the States/UTs requesting them to take the necessary action for implementation of various provisions of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. In response, 27 States/ UTs have established the State Mental Health Authority. Further, all the Rules and Regulations required to be framed by the Central Government as per the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 have been framed and notified.
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