PUNE: The Maharashtra government has appointed Dr Kiran Prakash Chavan, founder of the Manobrahma Foundation, director of the Samvad Rehabilitation Center and an expert in mental health and public health, as a member of the Maharashtra State Mental Health Authority Committee.Dr. Chavan has been appointed for a three-year term as a non-official member representing individuals or organizations dedicated to the care and support of people with mental illness.Speaking on his appointment, Dr Chavan said, “This appointment is not only an honor for me but also an important responsibility to help build a stronger, more inclusive and people-centred mental health system in the state. I remain committed to expanding access to mental health services to the last mile and strengthening rehabilitation services.”Over the past few years, Dr. Chavan has worked extensively in areas such as de-addiction, psychiatric rehabilitation, rehabilitation of the homeless with mental illness, mental health awareness and community-based mental health care, according to a statement.The Maharashtra State Mental Health Authority is the state’s apex statutory body responsible for planning, regulating and controlling mental health services, ensuring the effective implementation of mental health legislation and safeguarding the rights of people with mental illness. The committee includes experts, government officials and representatives from different sectors of society.It is expected that the appointment of Dr. Chavan brings his extensive grassroots experience and expertise in mental health care to the state’s policymaking process.