The Virtual Knowledge Network (VKN) at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) represents our commitment to democratizing knowledge and transforming mental healthcare delivery across India. Founded with the vision of bridging critical gaps in addiction and mental health services, we leverage technology to empower healthcare providers and transform patient outcomes.

Our Mission

At VKN NIMHANS, we believe in the power of knowledge sharing and capacity building to address the growing burden of mental health and addiction disorders. Our mission is to create a nationwide network of skilled healthcare providers who can deliver evidence-based, compassionate care in their own communities.

Our Core Initiatives

NIMHANS ECHO

ECHO is all teach, all learn

The NIMHANS ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) program is our flagship telementoring initiative that connects specialists at NIMHANS with healthcare providers across India, particularly in underserved communities. Through interactive video conferencing sessions, we facilitate:

• Interactive case-based learning – Providers present real cases and receive guidance from multidisciplinary experts
• Co-management of complex cases – Collaborative approach to challenging clinical scenarios
• Peer-to-peer learning – Creating communities of practice where knowledge flows in all directions
• Collaborative problem solving – Developing sustainable solutions to local healthcare challenges

This peer-led skill-based learning creates in-depth knowledge, builds new clinical skills, and enhances self-efficacy among primary healthcare providers. Patients benefit by receiving high-quality treatment in their own communities without traveling to distant specialized centers.

NIMHANS E-Learning

Digital education for mental health professionals

Our comprehensive e-learning platform at nimhanselearning.org offers structured courses, webinars, and resources for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in mental health and addiction medicine. The platform features:

• Self-paced learning modules developed by NIMHANS faculty
• Certification programs for professional development
• Clinical case libraries and evidence-based protocols
• Interactive assessments and learning tools
• CME-accredited courses for continued professional education

Addiction Rx Mobile App

Evidence-based addiction treatment at your fingertips

The Addiction Rx app is our innovative mobile solution designed to support healthcare providers in delivering standardized, evidence-based addiction treatment services. Key features include:

• Screening and assessment tools for substance use disorders
• Treatment protocols and medication guidelines
• Patient education materials and recovery resources
• Progress tracking and outcome measurement tools
• Direct consultation with addiction specialists

NAMAH NIMHANS

National Action for Mental health Awareness at NIMHANS

Our NAMAH initiative focuses on improving wellness, mental health, and resilience among healthcare professionals. Understanding the unique stressors facing medical providers, we offer:

• Specialized wellness programs for healthcare workers
• Burnout prevention and management strategies
• Peer support networks and mentoring
• Research on healthcare worker mental health
• Advocacy for system-level changes to support provider wellbeing

Our Impact

Through our integrated network of digital health initiatives, we have:

• Trained thousands of healthcare providers across India
• Extended quality addiction care to remote and underserved communities
• Reduced the treatment gap for mental health and addiction disorders
• Created sustainable knowledge-sharing networks
• Developed evidence-based models for technology-enabled healthcare delivery

Join Our Network

We invite healthcare professionals, institutions, and organizations passionate about improving mental health and addiction care to join our growing network. Together, we can transform the landscape of mental healthcare in India.

Contact Us to learn how you can be part of Project NIMHANS ECHO and our other initiatives.

Empowering Providers, Transforming Lives