In a landmark event marking both its Golden Jubilee and the Platinum Jubilee of the All-India Institute of Mental Health (AIIMH), the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru has unveiled the "NIMHANS Archiving Digital Initiative" (NADI).
NIMHANS has unveiled the 'NIMHANS Archiving Digital Initiative' (NADI), a monumental project digitizing over 37,000 archival patient records, offering an unprecedented glimpse into more than a century of mental health and neuroscience history in India.
The consecration of these invaluable archives took place on June 30, 2025, at the Heritage Museum within NIMHANS. Professor Pratima Murthy, the esteemed Director of NIMHANS, led the ceremony, joined by Professor Jagadisha Thirthalli, highlighting the significance of this endeavor.
A Glimpse into the Past, a Resource for the Future
NADI stands as one of the largest historical archives in mental health and neurosciences globally. The meticulously preserved records date back to the 1890s, tracing their origins to the era of the Mysore Lunatic Asylum, and continuing through the AIIMH period. NIMHANS itself was established in 1974, born from the merger of the Mental Hospital founded by the Government of Mysore and the AIIMH, established by the Government of India.
The consecration of these invaluable archives took place on June 30, 2025, at the Heritage Museum within NIMHANS. Professor Pratima Murthy, the esteemed Director of NIMHANS, led the ceremony, joined by Professor Jagadisha Thirthalli, highlighting the significance of this endeavor.
A Glimpse into the Past, a Resource for the Future
NADI stands as one of the largest historical archives in mental health and neurosciences globally. The meticulously preserved records date back to the 1890s, tracing their origins to the era of the Mysore Lunatic Asylum, and continuing through the AIIMH period. NIMHANS itself was established in 1974, born from the merger of the Mental Hospital founded by the Government of Mysore and the AIIMH, established by the Government of India.
Preserving Heritage, Advancing Research
This monumental collection offers a rare glimpse into over a century of mental health and neuroscience history at our institution.NIMHANS
The initiative is poised to be a game-changer for academic and clinical research. It will enable researchers, students, and historians to delve into the evolution of diagnostic trends and treatment methodologies over time. Furthermore, it will provide a rich foundation for studying the socio-medical context of mental health and neuroscience care in India throughout different eras.
While the accessibility of this vital resource is a cornerstone of the NADI project, NIMHANS has emphasized that access for research purposes will necessitate administrative and ethical approvals. Detailed guidelines outlining the process for accessing these resources for training and research will be circulated, ensuring responsible and ethical use of this sensitive historical data.
This initiative marks a significant step in preserving both our institution’s and the country’s mental health and neuroscience heritage, while also supporting future research in the field.NIMHANS
(Rehash/Dr. Divina Johncy Rosario/MSM/SE)