CBSE introduces mental health access for students through Tele MANAS services

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has instructed all its affiliated schools to integrate and promote the Tele-MANAS mental health services. The initiative, launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, aims to provide students with easy, stigma-free access to professional support.

Since its launch on October 10, 2022, the National Tele-Mental Health Programme, known as Tele-MANAS, has handled more than 23 lakh calls through 53 dedicated centres across States and Union Territories.

The service is available in 20 languages and offers free, confidential, 24x7 assistance managed by trained mental health professionals.

To further strengthen outreach, the Ministry has introduced a Video Consultation Platform for real-time, confidential interactions. In addition, the Tele-MANAS mobile app, available in Hindi and English, has been rolled out, with regional language versions expected soon.

These



measures are expected to address the unique mental health needs of adolescents and young learners.

CBSE has emphasised that schools play a vital role in shaping the emotional resilience of students. By ensuring access to these services, institutions can help nurture a healthier, more confident generation.

The circular directs schools to prominently display Tele-MANAS helpline numbers 14416 and 1800-891-4416 along with the QR code for the mobile app in visible spaces such as counsellor rooms, libraries, notice boards, and ICT labs.

Schools must also share the information in newsletters, handbooks, assemblies, and parent-teacher meetings.

Other measures include showing awareness videos developed by the Ministry of Health during wellness and life-skills activities, training counsellors and wellness coordinators to guide students to Tele-MANAS when required, and organising age-appropriate peer-led awareness programmes.