A major step toward strengthening mental health support for medical students was taken with the launch of the “IMA Saathi” initiative, conceived under the leadership of Dr Anupam Takalkar. The initiative focuses on stress management and suicide prevention among medical students.
The Indian Medical Association, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar branch formally launched “IMA Saathi” on Tuesday, 23 December, at Government Medical College, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This is the first initiative of its kind in the state, designed exclusively for medical students.
The programme was presided over by Dr Anupam Takalkar, President of IMA Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Dean Dr Shivaji Sukre and Vice Dean Dr Prabha Khare were present as chief guests. Dr P M Dark, Dr Dattatray Kadam, and Dr Aziz Qadri attended as distinguished guests. IMA Secretary Dr Yogesh Lakkas, Coordinator Dr Archana Kalyankar, Dr Gayatri Tadvalkar, Dr Vinod Mundada, and Head of Psychiatry Dr Prasad Deshpande were also present. MOC was Dr Swapna Ambekar.
Under this initiative, a dedicated help board was unveiled displaying the names and contact numbers of ten city based psychiatrists. These boards have been installed at hostels, libraries, and common student areas. Medical students experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional distress can directly contact the listed psychiatrists for timely support.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Anupam Takalkar emphasized the importance of clear goals, positive thinking, and seeking help without hesitation. He highlighted that mental health support during medical education is essential and that early intervention can save lives.
Dr Yogesh Lakkas explained that “IMA Saathi” is not a one time programme but a permanent support system for students. Other speakers highlighted the importance of communication, lifestyle balance, stress management, and emotional resilience.
The psychiatrists who have voluntarily joined the Stress Management Committee include Dr Amol Deshmukh, Dr Manik Bhise, Dr Snehdeep Jadhav, Dr Gaurav Murambikar, Dr Amol Pathrikar, Dr Pradeep Deshmukh, Dr Vishal Wathore, Dr Shraddha Borade, and Dr Shraddha Jadhav.
The initiative was widely appreciated by faculty and students alike. “IMA Saathi” stands as a strong message of trust, care, and safety for medical students and is expected to serve as a model for other medical colleges in the future.
