The Punjab launches India’s first mental health fellowship to boost its fight against substance abuse and strengthen community wellbeing. As Punjab launches India’s first mental health fellowship, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said the state aims to build a skilled force that can support prevention, treatment and rehabilitation across all districts.
The ‘Leadership in Mental Health Programme’ is a joint initiative of the Punjab Health Department, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Mohali, and TISS Mumbai. The fellowship will bring 35 trained professionals from India and abroad to work across 23 districts.
Dr. Balbir Singh said a healthy Punjab is crucial for a vibrant future. He stressed the need for compassionate and well-trained youth who can remove stigma and ignorance around mental health and drug addiction.
The two-year fellowship places early-career professionals under the Data Intelligence and Technical Support Unit, which drives Punjab’s anti-drug strategy. TISS Mumbai will train the fellows for two weeks before they begin field work.
Under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, the initiative aims to expand mental-health access and strengthen community-focused care. Of the 35 fellows, 23 will work in district units, 10 in Cluster Resource Centres, and two at the DITSU headquarters. Each fellow will receive ₹60,000 per month, training, mentorship and hands-on experience.
