In a move to make mental health services more accessible and inclusive, the Union Government on Friday unveiled a series of new features for the National Tele-Mental Health Programme (NTMHP), widely known as Tele MANAS.
The upgrades, launched by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, on the occasion of World Mental Health Day 2025, include tools designed to enhance usability for visually impaired users.
The revamped Tele MANAS app now offers a multilingual interface, a new chatbot feature, enhanced accessibility options, and an emergency module to support users in distress, the Ministry stated in a press note.
“Recognising that persons with disabilities and vulnerable groups often face barriers in accessing digital health services, the app now incorporates accessibility features to make the interface more user-friendly for visually impaired users,” the Health Ministry said.
The chatbot, named ‘Asmi’, allows users to interact with the app for information or assistance on mental health issues, while the new emergency content ensures timely support during crises.
Along with English and Hindi, the app will now be available in 10 regional languages – Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Odia, and Punjabi – further expanding its reach, the Ministry added.
“A sound mind leads to a sound body, and a healthy mind and body together create a healthy nation. India is committed to ensuring equitable, affordable, and inclusive access to mental health services,” Nadda said during the launch.
Meanwhile, the government appointed Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone as the mental health ambassador to raise awareness and promote the use of mental health services across India.
“The partnership with Deepika Padukone will help expand awareness, normalise discussions, and highlight mental health as an essential aspect of public health,” he said.