The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences is a premier medical institution under the Government of Kerala. | Photo credit: K. Ragesh
The Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), an autonomous institution under the Government of Kerala that works in mental health care delivery, training, research and policy development, has been without a full-time director for the last one year.
The vacancy arose after the death of P. Krishnakumar, the institute’s long-time director, last year. For about five months, KG Sajeeth Kumar, Principal, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, was put in charge. Then VP Jithu, Head of Psychiatry, was in charge.
However, sources close to the institute point out that a full-time director is required to devise new schemes and initiate research work and meaningful interventions in the mental health sector. In addition to outpatient services, it operates an autism clinic, community mental health programs, child development services, and rehabilitation projects. Patients from almost all districts in North Kerala depend on IMHANS for their mental health care needs.
The institute conducts MPhil programs in Psychiatric Social Work, Clinical Psychology and a post-basic diploma in Psychiatric Nursing. MPhil (Psychiatric Social Work) was started in 2014 and M Phil (Clinical Psychology) in 2017. Post-basic Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing was started in 2014. All these courses were first started in Government Sector in Kerala here.
The institute got its own building when its director was Dr. Krishnakumar. In recognition of the community based projects, IMHANS has been selected by the Union Government to be elevated as a Center of Excellence in Mental Health in the 11th Plan.
In the recent state budget, the government allocated ₹5 crore for the institute. Sources said the health ministry has invited qualified people from the Directorate of Medical Education and the Directorate of Health Services for the post.
Published – 04 Feb 2026 20:22 IST