Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Bangalore Act, 2012, declares NIMHANS as an institution of national importance and provides for its incorporation, aiming to promote high standards in mental health and neurosciences education and research.
1: Act Background and Ministry Under Which This Act Is:
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Bangalore Act, 2012, was enacted to declare the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, as an institution of national importance and to provide for its incorporation. This act aims to establish high standards of medical education and research in the fields of mental health and neurosciences. The act falls under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which oversees the functioning of NIMHANS and ensures its alignment with national health objectives. The ministry plays a vital role in promoting mental health and neurosciences.
2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Bangalore Act, 2012, was enacted on 13th September, 2012, and is known as Act No. 38 of 2012. The act is structured into 33 sections, with no formal chapters. These sections cover various aspects such as definitions, establishment and incorporation of the Institute, composition of the governing body, powers, functions, and rules. It also includes provisions for financial management and employee matters. The act has been amended over time to reflect changing requirements.
3: Act Governed By:
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences Act is governed by the Central Government, which has the power to make rules and regulations under the Act. The act also provides for the establishment of a Governing Body of the Institute, which is responsible for its administration. The act is governed by the provisions outlined within it, as well as rules and regulations framed by the Central government. It is therefore a combination of central and institutional governance.
4: On Whom It Is Applicable:
The provisions of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences Act are applicable to NIMHANS, its members, the governing body, faculty, staff, and students. The act also applies to the Central Government, which exercises control and oversight. The act ensures that all its actions and activities are in accordance with the regulations outlined, as well as the Institute’s mandate and guiding principles. The general public are indirect beneficiaries of the Act’s provisions. The Institute’s operations cover the entire territory of India.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences Act does not specifically lay down penalties or punishments for violation of its provisions. However, the act empowers the Central Government to oversee the functioning of the Institute and ensure accountability through rules, regulations, and supervisory authority. The act emphasizes the proper management of the Institute and its funds. This act therefore prioritizes good governance and public welfare.
6: Important Pointers:
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National Importance: The act declares NIMHANS as an institution of national importance.
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Governing Body: It provides for the appointment and composition of the Governing Body, which oversees the operations.
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President’s Role: The President of the Institute is nominated by the Central Government and oversees its functioning.
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Rule-Making: It allows the Institute to make regulations for its management and procedures.
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Fund Application: It specifies how the funds and resources of the Institute can be applied for medical education and research.
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Scope of Activities: It outlines a wide range of activities, including teaching, research, and training of medical personnel.
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Protection for Actions: The act protects those who act in good faith and take measures according to its provisions. The act outlines clear definitions and procedures to handle outbreaks.
7: Act Copy: