RFS Logo The Richmond Fellowship Society (India)
Dept. of Psychiatry, NIMHANS
Home Welcome Message Committee Programme E Posters Registration About the Venue Contact Us Register Now →
The Richmond Fellowship Society (India)

International Conference
on Rehab to Recovery

In collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS, Bengaluru — two and a half days of science, dialogue, and celebration of four decades of mental health rehabilitation.

4th
December
5th
December
6th
December

As we celebrate
40 years of RFS's journey

Theme: Rehab to Recovery – 40 years of RFS (India)

Support group
Est. 1986 · Celebrating Four Decades

Since 1986, The Richmond Fellowship Society (India) has been at the forefront of providing quality rehabilitation services – helping individuals regain self-confidence and improve their quality of life.

RFS(I) Four branches are located at Bengaluru, Delhi, Lucknow and Sidlaghatta.

Book Your Spot →

Conference Highlights

Day 1–3

Keynote & Scientific Sessions

National and international experts sharing knowledge on psychosocial rehabilitation, recovery, and community mental health.

Panel

Panel Discussions on Policy & Media

High-level dialogues on mental health legislation, rights-based frameworks, and the role of media.

Workshops

Workshops on Emerging Interventions

Hands-on sessions for mental health professionals, NGOs, students, family members, and individuals with lived experience.

Anniversary

40-Year Gala

A landmark celebration honouring four decades of RFS India — with cultural performances.

E-Posters

E-Poster Presentations

Click here for details.

Forum

Lived Experience Forum

A unique platform for professionals, families, carers, and persons with lived experience — mutual learning and exchange.

Why Attend

Your Reasons to Be in Bengaluru This December

01

World-Class Faculty

Eminent psychiatrists, rehabilitation specialists, and recovery coaches from India and across the globe.

02

Collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS

Bringing together academic expertise, clinical insight, and shared commitment to mental health rehabilitation.

03

Rich Networking

Connect with clinicians, researchers, NGO leaders, policy makers, and persons with lived experience.

04

E-Poster Presentations

Showcase your research internationally in psychiatric rehabilitation science.

05

Historic 40th Year Milestone

Be part of a once-in-a-generation celebration of the recovery movement in India since 1986.

Join the Recovery Movement.
Register for the Conference.

December 4–6, 2026 · NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru · International delegates welcome

Co-Sponsored & Supported By

The Richmond Fellowship Society (India)
Bengaluru
Dept. of Psychiatry, NIMHANS
The Richmond Fellowship Society (India)

Welcome Message

A warm word from the leadership of the International Conference on Rehab to Recovery 2026

Dr H S Aditya
Organising Chairman
Dr H S Aditya
CEO, RFS Bengaluru
Dr S Kalyanasundaram
Hon. Advisor, RFS Bengaluru
Dr S Kalyanasundaram
Organising Secretary

Psychosocial rehabilitation is a vital part of managing severe mental illness. Yet, many in the community are unable to access this crucial component of care due to various challenges. For decades, The Richmond Fellowship Society (India) (RFSI) has been at the forefront of providing quality rehabilitation services — helping individuals regain self-confidence, improve their quality of life, and restore dignity.

Founded in 1959 in the UK by Elly Jannsen, the Richmond Fellowship today operates in over thirty locations worldwide. In India, RFSI began its journey in Bengaluru in 1986 under the leadership of Dr. G. N. Narayana Reddy and colleagues. Since then, it has expanded to Delhi, Lucknow, and Sidlaghatta (rural branch), offering commendable services across diverse communities.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of RFSI in India — a milestone that brings together professionals and advocates dedicated to psychosocial rehabilitation. Your presence will make this conference truly memorable. We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating this journey of resilience, dignity, and hope.

Rehab to Recovery 2026

Organising Committee

Patrons

Chief Patron

Dr G N Narayana Reddy

Founder, The Richmond Fellowship Society (India)

Patron

Director, NIMHANS

National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru

Dr H S Aditya
Organising Chairman

Dr H S Aditya

CEO, RFS Bengaluru
Dr S Kalyanasundaram
Hon. Advisor & Organising Secretary

Dr S Kalyanasundaram

Hon. Advisor, RFS Bengaluru
Advisors
Dr Pratima Murthy
Dr Prabha Chandra
Dr Janaradhan Reddy
Dr Jagadisha Thirthalli
Mr B Chandrasekhar
Prof Rajan Gurukkal
Committee Members
Dr. Aarti Jaganathan
Dr. Aparna Khanna
Dr. Krishna Prasad
Dr. Lata Hemchand
Dr Mathew Varghese
Ms. Maya Chandra
Dr. Sanjeev Jain
Dr. Shanivaram Reddy
Dr. Shanthala Hegde
Dr. Shashi Rai
Mr. Sreekanth
Dr. Srikala Bharath
Dr. Vidya Sathyanarayanan
Admin
Ms. Padma

Faculty

Speakers & Faculty

Dr Anand Pandurangi
Dr Jagadisha Thirthalli
Dr Manoj Kumar
Dr Matcheri Keshavan
Virtual Presentation
Dr Mohan Isaac
Dr Rajesh Menon
Dr Thara
Empowerment of Research
Dr Venkatsubramaiam
Family / Carer Representative
Lived Experience
Patient Representative
Lived Experience
Rehab to Recovery 2026

Conference Programme

Two and a half days of scientific sessions, workshops, keynote lectures, and celebration — December 4, 5 & 6, 2026

Programme Overview

Two and a Half Days of Science, Dialogue & Celebration

4
Friday4 December 2026
  • Inauguration Ceremony (Afternoon)
  • Opening Keynote Lecture
  • Workshops & Symposia
  • E-poster presentations
  • Welcome Reception & Networking Dinner
5
Saturday5 December 2026
  • Keynote Speakers & Plenary Sessions
  • Workshops & Symposia
  • E-Poster Presentations
  • 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards
6
Sunday6 December 2026
  • Keynote Speakers
  • Workshops & Symposia
  • Lived Experience Forum
  • E-Poster Viewing & Judging
  • Valedictory Ceremony & Closing

Daily Conference Timings

4th & 5th December 2026
  • 9:30 am – 5:00 pm: Full-day conference sessions
  • 11:00 am – 11:30 am: Morning tea / coffee break
  • 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Lunch break
  • 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm: Afternoon tea / coffee break
6th December 2026
  • 9:30 am – 12:30 pm: Half-day conference sessions
  • 11:00 am – 11:30 am: Morning tea / coffee break
  • 12:30 pm onwards: Valedictory Ceremony & Lunch

Important Note

Delegate presentations will be via e-Posters only. There will be no free paper presentations. Registration is compulsory for those who wish to present posters or participate in symposia and workshops. The detailed scientific programme will be shared with registered delegates.

RFS 40th year 2026

E-Poster Presentation

We invite abstracts for poster presentation which can be submitted only online.

Abstract Submission

RFS 40th year 2026 - E-Poster Presentation

Deadline for the submission of the abstracts for the poster presentation is 31st August 2026.

Best posters will be awarded.

Submission Guidelines

  • Abstract submissions will be accepted only through the online portal.
  • The content must be the original work of the author.
  • Each abstract should not exceed 250 words.
  • Abstracts must demonstrate a sound scientific methods, with clear results or outcomes.
  • The presenting author must be listed as the primary author and must have registered for the conference.

Abstracts can be submitted in the following topics:

Brain Medication and Schizophrenia
Rehab, Brain & Schizophrenia
Employment for SMI - Expectations and Challenges
Insurance for Mentally ill
How to Set Up Rehab Facilities
Govt Support - What are the Concerns?
Research Work in SMI
Mental Health Authority - Licensing Issues
Rehab Practices
Users / Lived Experience
Homeless Mentally Ill and Rehab
Sexuality / Intimacy / Relationships and SMI
Qualitative and Quantitative Research in Rehabilitation
AI, Tech and Rehab
Tele Rehab
Neuropsych Evaluation in Rehab
Yoga and Rehab
Expressive Art Therapies in Rehab
Intervention with Families
Building Resilience
Self Help Groups
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Delusions
Rehab in Neurodiversity Disorders
Dance and Music Therapy in Rehab
Physical Health, SMI and Challenges in Rehab
Peer Support and Peer-Led Interventions
Carer Support and Intervention

Eligibility

Poster presentations are open to researchers, students, and professionals in mental health, carers and peers with lived experience

Theme

Abstracts must relate to: “Rehab to Recovery" .

Format

  • Each abstract should not exceed 250 Words.
  • Must clearly summarize the study under Purpose, Methods, Results, and Conclusions.
  • Titles should be concise and informative, avoiding abbreviations or acronyms. Tables or figures should not be included.

Key Dates

  • Poster abstracts must be submitted by 31st August 2026.
  • Authors will be notified by 30th September 2026.

Selection

Submissions will be reviewed by the Scientific Committee of the conference.

Registration

Presenting authors must have registered with the conference prior to submission and the registration number must be entered.

E POSTER GUIDELINES [ To be submitted after you receive a acceptance letter from the scientific committee ]

  • Display Format: 42" LCD screen (landscape orientation)
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • File Format: Power Point (.PPT)
  • File Size: 5-10 MB
  • Number of Slides: One (1) only
  • Not Allowed: Animations, videos, or sound
  • Content Structure: Introduction, Aims, Methods, Results, Conclusion, Acknowledgements
  • Posters should be brief, self-explanatory, and well-organized.

Submission of Abstracts

SUBMIT ABSTRACT
Rehab to Recovery 2026

Registration

Register now and secure your place at this landmark 40th anniversary conference

Fees Structure

Category Early Bird – 31st August 2026 Regular - 31st October 2026 Spot Registration - 1st November onwards
Indian/SAARC DelegatesINR 7080INR 8260INR 9440
Foreign DelegatesUSD 100USD 150USD 200
NGOsINR 3540INR 4720INR 5900
StudentsINR 1180INR 1770INR 1770
Families / caregiversINR 1180INR 1770INR 1770
* Registration fees is inclusive of GST @ 18%

Online Registration

Delegates can complete registration through the official online portal. Use the button below or scan the QR code to proceed.

Please keep your Medical Council Registration No. (If applicable) ready while completing the registration form.

Register Online →
QR code for online registration Scan to register online

Cancellation Policy

  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to the Conference Secretariat.
  • Before 31st Oct 2026 - 50% of the registration fee will be refunded.
  • After 31st Oct 2026 - no refund will be provided.
  • Refunds will be processed within 30 days after the conference.
  • GST and bank transaction charges are non-refundable.
Bengaluru aerial night skyline

About the Venue

NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru — venue information, city highlights, and travel guidance

About the Venue

Bengaluru Awaits You

Bengaluru is India's Silicon Valley — a city of lush parks, historic palaces, world-class cuisine, and a thriving arts scene. Make the most of your visit to this wonderful city.

Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru
Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru
Lalbagh Botanical Garden aerial view, Bengaluru
Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bengaluru
Bengaluru city landmark
Bengaluru City Landmark
Bengaluru at night
Vidhana Soudha Heritage, Bengaluru
Indian architecture
Karnataka Legislature, Bengaluru
Bengaluru heritage building
Bengaluru Architecture

Conference Venue

NIMHANS Convention Centre

  • Hosur Main Road, Lakkasandra
  • Hombegowda Nagar
  • Bengaluru – 560 029

NIMHANS is one of India's premier institutions, located in the heart of Bengaluru, well-connected by metro, bus, and cab services.

Hotel Recommendations & Transport

The list of hotels with rates will be updated shortly by the Conference Secretariat.

Transport guides and local sightseeing options — including a visit to RFS facilities — will be provided by the Conference Secretariat. Please contact the organisers for detailed accommodation packages and group booking assistance.

Rehab to Recovery 2026

Contact Us

Reach out to the Conference Secretariat for registration, abstract submission, or any general enquiries

Secretariat Address

The Richmond Fellowship Society (India), Bengaluru Branch
ASHA, 8, 47th A Cross, 9th Main
5th Block, Jayanagar
Bengaluru – 560 041, India
rfs.rehabtorecovery.in
www.rfsbangalore.ngo

Conference Venue

NIMHANS Convention Centre
Hosur Main Road, Lakkasandra
Hombegowda Nagar
Bengaluru – 560 029
4th, 5th & 6th December 2026
(Friday, Saturday & Sunday)

Conference Secretariat

Marundeshwara Enterprises
A4, Shanthi Apartments
18, TTK 1st Cross Street, Alwarpet
Chennai - 600 018
+91-44-24353079, 24328152, 24357194