India is facing a growing mental health crisis marked by a high burden of depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicides, with nearly 70–92% treatment gap and a severe shortage of professionals. The Union Budget 2026 has focused on institutional expansion, including a second campus of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, upgradation of regional institutes, and continued support for digital services like Tele MANAS. However, mental health spending remains below 2% of the health budget, and challenges such as stigma, limited community-level services, workforce shortages, and rising youth and digital-age stress persist. Addressing the crisis requires greater funding, community-based care, preventive strategies, and stronger primary healthcare integration to ensure accessible and affordable mental health services for all.
Click to View MoreEarly childhood care and development, especially during the first 3,000 days of life, is crucial for building strong human capital. While India has improved child survival through health and nutrition programmes, holistic development covering cognitive, emotional and social aspects remains underemphasised. Global evidence shows that early investment yields the highest economic and social returns. A universal, integrated and citizen-led ECCD approach is essential for achieving inclusive growth and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Click to View MoreAs global powers turn inward, India has a rare chance to make its cities global innovation hubs. This requires urgent urban reform, better governance, clean air, efficient transport, and top-tier education and healthcare to attract and retain talent, driving India’s economic transformation.
Click to View More
© 2026 iasgyan. All right reserved