World Suicide Prevention Day observed with call to 'Start the Conversation'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 10 2026: World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 was widely observed across the State today with programmes focused on raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting preventive action.

Shija Hospitals

The Department of Psychiatry, Shija Hospitals & Shija Academy of Health Sciences (SAHS), Langol, in collaboration with the Indian Psychiatric Society, Imphal, observed World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 today under the theme "Changing the Narrative on Suicide: #StartTheConversation".

More than 250 students and staff attended.

Ningthoujam Geoffrey, Commissioner of Education (Schools), was the chief guest.

Dr Nelson Loitongbam, Secretary IPS-Manipur and Assistant Professor, Psychiatry, JNIMS, was the guest speaker.

Editor of Imphal Review of Arts & Politics Pradip Phanjoubam, SAHS Director Dr Amuba Maisnam and Shija CMD Dr Palin Khundongbam were guests of honour.

Prof Koijam Shantibala, HOD Psychiatry, Shija & SAHS, presided.

In her keynote, Prof Shantibala said suicide is preventable and stressed empathy and genuine human connection.

Dr Nelson highlighted the global burden of suicide, Pradip Phanjoubam stressed the importance of conversation on the issue, and Dr Amuba spoke on biological factors including role of serotonin.

Dr Palin called for introducing meditation in school curricula from primary level, stressing the need for a scientific approach to nurturing mental well-being and helping children develop their full potential.

Geoffrey spoke on reasons behind youth suicides and the Government's decision to scrap ranking system for Class 10 and 12 to reduce academic pressure.

As part of the observance, Shija organised free OPD consultation at the Psychiatry Department from September 7 to 9 with free medicines.

An essay competition on "Beyond Awareness: Building a Culture of Suicide Prevention through Conversation" was also held.

Nikita Hirom bagged first prize, followed by Chingangbam Prameshowri Chanu and Bidyasagar Moirangthem in second and third.

RIMS

At the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, the Department of Psychiatry in collaboration with RIMS Students' Union observed the day under the theme "Change the Narrative" at Kamal Hall.

Prof Laishram Rajesh Singh, Dean (Academics), Prof Ratan Konjengbam.

Sub-Dean (Examination), Asst Prof G Tarun Kumar Sharma, Sub-Dean (Student Affairs) and RIMSSU general secretary Rubel Debberma graced the programme.

Prof Rajesh said suicide prevention is about creating hope, connection and belonging and urged to listen without judgement and provide timely support.

Talks on causes and prevention, students' voice, testimonials, Tele-MANAS and stress management were delivered.

Meanwhile, the Department of Clinical Psychology, RIMS, led by Dr Sameeta Ng, Asst Professor and HoD in-charge, organised an awareness, psychological assessment cum interaction programme at Keibi High School, Sawombung Block, Imphal East.

Spastic Society of Manipur

The Spastic Society of Manipur (SSM) also observed the day at Manipur University, Canchipur.

The programme featured a signature campaign and tying of yellow ribbons on trees at the Traffic Island of the campus, under the global theme "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" with the call to action "Start the Conversation" .

State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities W Birahari Singh attended the programme and emphasised mental health as integral to wellbeing and the need for accessible support systems for persons with disabilities.

SSM secretary L Tokendra Ricky said suicide prevention is a collective responsibility and stressed timely intervention, listening without judgement and building inclusive, supportive environments.

Comment