Initiative Aims to Expand Neurological Care Across All Districts
New Delhi, May 17 — In a significant step toward improving neurological healthcare, Delhi has inaugurated its first dedicated Brain Health Clinic at Indira Gandhi Hospital, Dwarka. The facility was formally opened by Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh on Saturday and marks the beginning of a city-wide initiative to make brain health care accessible at the district level.The clinic has been established under India’s Brain Health Initiative, supported by NITI Aayog with IHBAS (Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences) serving as the technical partner. It will provide early screening, diagnosis, and therapy for a range of neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and migraines. The clinic will also offer counselling and tele-neurology services to ensure continuous care and follow-ups.
A Mission Beyond Infrastructure
"This is not just a facility, it is a mission," said Health Minister Pankaj Singh at the launch. "Whenever you face a brain-related problem, come here. Don’t hide or delay treatment. Similar centres will be opened in every district.”According to official statements, neurological disorders are now the second-largest cause of death globally and the leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The Delhi government plans to replicate the Dwarka model across all 11 districts, incorporating lifestyle modification counselling and caregiver support into the service model.
Integrated Approach to Brain Health
IHBAS will play a pivotal role by training staff and monitoring outcomes across the upcoming district-level clinics. The initiative aligns with the vision of the National Task Force on Brain Health, chaired by IHBAS Director Rajinder Kumar Dhamija.The project is also part of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s vision for a “future-ready” healthcare system in the national capital, underscoring the commitment to proactive and accessible neurological care for all citizens.
With this move, Delhi takes a pioneering step in embedding brain health into primary healthcare, potentially setting a benchmark for other states across India.