I will be discussing the role of telemedicine, specifically the TeleManas initiative, in improving equitable access to mental health care in Kashmir, a region severely affected by decades of violence and ongoing conflict. Mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse have become increasingly prevalent in Kashmir due to the prolonged violence. The ongoing unrest has left many individuals grappling with the emotional and psychological toll of living in a conflict zone, yet mental health services are severely lacking in the region. Kashmir faces a significant shortage of mental health professionals, with a psychiatrist-to-population ratio of just 0.1 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, which is far below the global average of 9.1 psychiatrists per 100,000 in high-income countries (WHO, 2017). This disparity is compounded by the geographical isolation of many areas in Kashmir, particularly during the harsh winter months, when snow-blocked roads make it difficult for individuals in remote villages to travel and access essential services, including mental health care. This is where TeleManas steps in. TeleManas, an initiative launched by the Government of India, leverages the power of telemedicine to provide 24/7 mental health support via audio and video consultations. This service aims to bring mental health care to the most vulnerable populations, particularly in remote areas where access to in-person mental health professionals is almost impossible, especially during the winter months when roads are closed due to heavy snowfall. TeleManas offers a confidential, safe, and immediate platform for individuals in Kashmir to connect with trained mental health professionals without the need for physical visits. This is incredibly important, especially in a region like Kashmir, where cultural stigma around mental health care often deters people from seeking help in traditional settings. Many individuals in Kashmir, especially those affected by the ongoing violence, may be reluctant to seek care in person due to fear of judgment or the risk of being identified, but TeleManas allows for greater privacy and discretion. The service is particularly beneficial for individuals who are isolated or live in remote areas, where accessing a local clinic may take hours or even days. During winter, when snowfall and blocked roads make transportation nearly impossible, TeleManas ensures that no one is left without the support they need. The initiative also helps to address the shortage of mental health professionals by providing access to qualified psychiatrists and counselors through digital platforms. However, there are challenges to digital inclusion that must be addressed for TeleManas to reach its full potential. Issues like poor internet connectivity and low digital literacy remain significant barriers. Many people in remote areas lack the necessary infrastructure or skills to use digital platforms effectively. For TeleManas to be truly impactful, these barriers must be tackled through improved internet access, training programs in digital literacy, and a continued effort to integrate telemedicine into Kashmir's healthcare framework. In conclusion, TeleManas provides a critical lifeline for those in Kashmir, especially those affected by the trauma of violence and conflict. By leveraging telemedicine, we can overcome geographical, social, and cultural barriers to ensure equitable access to mental health care. This initiative is a promising step toward providing much-needed support for the mental health of the Kashmiri population, particularly during times when physical access to care is severely limited.