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Sattwik Satyakam DevtaAIR 100· 2023

Question 7GS2GS2

Despite being lauded for its patient centric approach, the implementation of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, remains sluggish and mired with various issues. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)

Open scan (p.18)

Main Body

The Mental Health Care Act, 2017

Opens a new paradigm for treatment and rehabilitation of mental health patients.

Provisions:

Decriminalize suicide as done under mental stress
Implement treatment options for mental health
Specialized Counselling centers on women
NIMHANS - to promote research and human capacity development for mental health

Reason for sluggish implementation:

Scarcity of human resource - less number of psychiatrists, psychologists etc in India
Social stigma with regard to mental problem
Lack of mental counselling centres in rural area
High cost of therapies for mental health problem
Lack of awareness regarding treatment

Recent steps such as Tele-mental health center are a good step forward. Technology can be used for systemic implementation of the act.

125 words9 paragraphs

Conclusion

Recent steps such as Tele-mental health center are a good step forward. Technology can be used for systemic implementation of the act.

22 words

Topper

Sattwik Satyakam Devta

AIR 1002023

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections - Performance, Mechanisms, Laws and Institutions

Social Safety Nets and Welfare

Mental Healthcare Act 2017

Writing Stats

147

Total words

9

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone