By Vikram Dutt- Thematic leader on Mental Health, QIC & AC-Delhi
The introduction of mandatory mental health programmes in all licensed child welfare institutions is a tribute to the pioneering work and effective lobbying done by all members of the QIC&AC. However, the ground reality is that there are many grey areas about the implementation the law. More importantly and critically, there is lack of comprehension about the parameters of a mental health program.
Additionally, there is the issue of reporting and record keeping as laid down in the JJ Act. This too needs to be addressed.
The meeting going to be held on 4.12.08,will discuss all these issues so that we are able to evolve a structure of what the workshop in January 2009 should focus on.
At the same time, we must bear in mind that the expected and targeted outcome is the preparation of Reference Manual on what constitutes a Dynamic Mental Health Program.
Additionally, we are also looking at creating Master Trainers. As well as a Bhagidari with the state authorities on implementation of Mental Health programs.
I may mention that on the 27th November, i.e. the day after the QIC&AC meeting we had a Consultation with CWC Members. This meeting was hels at Udayan Care office.
The involvement of the CWC members in such an important matter was reflected in the high attendance.
1. Dr. Bharti Sharma Chairperson) and
2. Mr. J.P. Goel, Nari Niketan
3. Mrs. mamta Sahy;
4. Dr. Sarita Sarangi, and
5. Mrs. Shobha Vijender from Mayur Vihar.
6. Mr. Yadav and
7. Mr. M.M. Vidyarthi, Lajpat Nagar.
8. Mrs. Nita ji, CWC member from Meerut, UP, also attended.
Members from Sewa Kutir were unable to attend since it clashed with an official visit of Justice Lokur to the CWC.
Additionally, Mrs. Neera Malik, former Planning Officer, Social Welfare was a Special Invitee. Dr. Kiran Modi and I represented the host organisation, Udayan Care. Brig. Narang, Ms. Ratika, Ms. Vinita Sindhwani, Ms. Antra, Mr. Rakesh and Ms. Nita from Udayan Care were in attendance.
The subject of Positive Mental Health was discussed and they were unanimous in their opinion that the series of Workshops, as planned, would have a very positive effect on implementation of mental health programs. They registered their support for this effort.
They also felt that the involvement of the NCPCR would be a marvellous step in the right direction.
