NIMHANS must lead research on tech-driven behavioural disorders: Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday called upon NIMHANS to take the lead in addressing emerging neuropsychological challenges arising from rapid technological change. 

Delivering the 28th convocation address of NIMHANS online, she said AI-driven digital platforms, addictive social media algorithms, and excessive smartphone dependency are reshaping brain development, behaviour, learning, and emotional regulation at a population scale.

“These are not marginal issues; they are altering brain development and emotional regulation. The institution is uniquely placed to move beyond opinion and generate evidence that guides national action,” she said.

She encouraged NIMHANS to spearhead multidisciplinary research on the neurobiological impact of digital overload, early markers of technology-related behavioural disorders, and practical interventions for schools, families, and workplaces.

Not black-and-white

At the same time, she stressed that AI should be viewed not only as a challenge but also as an opportunity. “AI can improve diagnostics, personalise treatment, build predictive models, and extend mental health support to crores who currently lack access. The future of neuroscience will be defined by how well we understand and manage the interaction between human brains and digital environments”.

Ms. Sitharaman further emphasised that neurosciences are now central to national productivity and social stability, calling for integrated solutions rather than isolated efforts in mental healthcare. She said the institute must align its three foundational domains –  clinical services, training and research – to accelerate transformative outcomes for public health.

Presiding over the event, State Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development Sharan Prakash R. Patil lauded NIMHANS as a national “lighthouse” in brain and mental healthcare.

New centres

He reiterated the State government’s commitment to strengthening mental health infrastructure and announced that new centres in Kalaburgi and Mysuru, each sanctioned ₹100 crore, would be developed in collaboration with NIMHANS. He thanked the Union government for clearing the long-pending 300-bed Polytrauma Centre at the NIMHANS northern campus.

Earlier, NIMHANS director Pratima Murthy said the past year –  marking the institute’s Golden Jubilee – was a landmark period with major milestones in infrastructure and patient care. The Psychiatry Specialty Block, Central Laboratory Complex and advanced imaging facilities were inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. NIMHANS recorded a historic high of 6.85 lakh patients last year, with more than 23.5 lakh diagnostic tests and 8,000 surgeries conducted.

At the convocation, 251 students received degrees and certificates, including in absentia, and 28 meritorious graduates were honoured with medals and awards.