Tele-MANAS mental health helpline handles over 29.7 lakh calls since 2022

The Tele MANAS toll-free number, launched as part of the national tele-mental health programme in India, has received more than 29,75,000 calls since its launch in 2022 till mid-March 2025, the Parliament was informed on Monday.

Minister of State for Education Dr Sukanta Majumdar, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, spoke about suicide cases of students, especially in the IITs, and the programmes initiated in the country to address mental health issues.

Under the National Tele Mental Health Programme, 36 States and UTs have set up 53 Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (MANAS) Cells till July 17.

“More than 29,75,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number,” the Minister said. Majumdar noted that to address the issue of suicide in young adults, the government is taking multi-pronged measures and provides psychological support to students, teachers, and families for mental and emotional well-being to avoid incidences of suicide.