Bhavnagar, October 2025: In a unique initiative aimed at the holistic development and mental well-being of children, Bhavnagar has officially launched the Mission Balman program. This program, spearheaded by the Bhavnagar district administration in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation and the Health Department of the District Panchayat, focuses on empowering children mentally and encouraging them to express their thoughts and feelings freely.
The launch event was held at Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul, GIDC Chitra, with the presence of the District Collector, District Development Officer, and other senior officials. The program carries the slogan “Dimag ka Dhakkan Kholo, Bejizak Ab Bolo”, which translates to “Open the lid of your mind, now speak without hesitation.” This reflects the initiative’s goal to create awareness among children about mental health and to guide them in overcoming stress, fear, and anxiety through appropriate support and counseling.
Raising Awareness About Mental Health
Under the guidance of District Collector Dr. Manish Kumar Bansal, Mission Balman emphasizes educating children and their families about mental health challenges, especially depression and anxiety. During the launch, Dr. Bansal highlighted that children facing emotional difficulties should never feel ashamed or hesitant. Instead, they should openly share their feelings with parents, friends, or trained counselors.
He further explained that even someone experiencing depression can achieve great success if they take proper guidance and support. “Negative thoughts are natural, but learning to manage and express them gradually allows one to grow and succeed,” he said.
Schools to Provide Safe Platforms for Expression
As part of the program, all schools in Bhavnagar will have a special suggestion box named “Custbin”, where students can anonymously express their emotions and concerns. This initiative ensures that children have a safe platform to communicate their thoughts, which can then be addressed appropriately by teachers or counselors.
The District Collector shared a personal experience, revealing that he himself faced depression during his second year of MBBS. With the support of friends and professional guidance from psychologists, he was able to overcome his challenges and eventually clear the UPSC exam, reaching the position of District Collector. By sharing his story, he encouraged children to seek help and not feel isolated in their struggles.
Encouraging Healthy Habits for Mental Well-being
Apart from awareness and counseling, Mission Balman also focuses on promoting healthy lifestyle habits among children. Speakers at the launch encouraged students to engage in regular physical activity, practice yoga, maintain proper nutrition, and ensure a timely breakfast. Such habits, they explained, can help prevent many minor and major mental health issues.
Furthermore, the program aims to educate society about the importance of guiding children to express their emotions correctly. Experts emphasized that a supportive environment at home and school can play a vital role in building emotionally strong and resilient future citizens.
A Step Towards a Mentally Stronger Generation
The Mission Balman initiative marks a significant step in Bhavnagar’s efforts to address mental health challenges among children. By combining education, counseling, and practical strategies, the program aims to ensure that children grow up confident, emotionally balanced, and ready to face life’s challenges without fear.
The slogan “Dimag ka Dhakkan Kholo, Bejizak Ab Bolo” encapsulates the core philosophy of the initiative: breaking the silence around mental health and empowering children to speak freely about their emotions. With proper guidance, encouragement, and community support, the program aspires to nurture a generation of mentally resilient and self-aware individuals.
Mission Balman: Key Objectives
| Objective | Details |
|---|---|
| Mental Awareness | Educate children about stress, fear, and anxiety. |
| Safe Expression | Provide platforms like “Custbin” for students to share feelings. |
| Counseling Support | Professional guidance from psychologists and trained staff. |
| Healthy Lifestyle | Encourage yoga, exercise, and proper nutrition. |
| Community Involvement | Engage parents, teachers, and society in supporting children. |
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By addressing both emotional and practical aspects of mental health, Mission Balman is expected to positively impact the lives of children in Bhavnagar. This initiative not only helps children express themselves but also fosters a culture of understanding, empathy, and resilience.
With continued efforts from schools, families, and the district administration, Mission Balman aims to become a model program for other regions in India, ensuring that mental health becomes an integral part of childhood development.
