Kolkata, October 10, 2025: Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, in collaboration with Antara, laid the foundation stone of the Axis Bank Antara Institute of Health Sciences (AIHS) at Antaragram, Kolkata. The ceremony was organized in observance of World Mental Health Day 2025, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to raising awareness, enhancing capacity, and improving access to quality mental healthcare in India.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO, Axis Bank; Reynold D’Souza, President & Head – Branch Banking, North & East & TASC Business, Axis Bank; and Dr. Matthew P. John, Hon. General Secretary, Antara; Kamal Prakash, President, Antara, and senior representatives from Axis Bank.
The establishment of the Antara Institute of Health Sciences marks a significant milestone in advancing mental health education and training in Eastern India. The Institute will serve as a premier center for both students and professionals who aspire to pursue studies in mental health and related fields. The Institute will be equipped with modern infrastructure, academic programs, and training resources designed to address the acute shortage of skilled mental health professionals in India. This initiative reflects the shared vision of Axis Bank and Antara in promoting holistic mental health services and education for future generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO, Axis Bank, said, “We are honoured to partner with Antara in establishing a pioneering educational institution dedicated to mental health. This initiative is not just about building an institute, it is about building hope, capacity, and resilience for India. By empowering students and professionals with world-class training, we are taking a step towards ensuring that quality mental healthcare becomes accessible to every community in need.”
“Antara is deeply grateful to the leadership of Axis Bank for recognizing India’s urgent need for trained mental health specialists. Their support has turned our long-standing dream into reality and, within the next few years, Antara will help build a new generation of skilled mental health professionals for our nation,” said Dr. Matthew P. John, Hon. General Secretary, Antara.
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