Bhojpur: Members of the IAS Officers’ Wives Association (IASOWA) visited the Bihar State Institute of Mental Health and Allied Sciences (BIMHAS) in Koilwar, Bhojpur, on Sunday, distributing warm clothing and games to patients while advocating for increased awareness of mental health. The delegation, led by Dr. Ratna Amrit, chair of IASOWA’s executive committee, included secretary Jasmine Chaudhary and joint secretary Manjari Singh. They received a briefing from the institute’s director, Dr. Jayesh Ranjan, who discussed the transition of BIMHAS to its current location and highlighted recent improvements made by the state health department. During their visit, the members toured the wards, observed rehabilitation and therapeutic activities, and interacted with patients. They distributed blankets, woolen clothing, and board games, which Dr.
Amrit referred to as a “small gesture of affection.” After the visit, Dr. Amrit expressed appreciation for the chance to connect with a significant mental health facility in Bihar. She commended the institute’s staff and emphasized the importance of breaking down stigma and engaging with patients empathetically and humanely. She noted that the outreach had “opened a new path” for the association and hoped it would enhance awareness of mental health issues in the broader community. IASOWA stated that the visit is part of its broader initiative to foster compassion, diminish stigma, and promote more inclusive perspectives on mental health.
