The purpose of this survey was to address country-wide mental health problems by collecting data in order to develop and administer mental health services.

The sample size was 34,802 individuals, and 39,532 were successfully interviewed across 12 states in India. All participants were 18 years and older, except in four states where adolescents 13 years and older were included. In addition to the main questionnaire, individuals were also interviewed on epilepsy, tobacco use, and intellectual disability. Based on those responses, some participants were further interviewed on health treatment, disability, and socioeconomic factors.