Background <p>Mental health issues are a significant public health issue in India, where most people live in rural communities; many people suffer from multiple mental health problems but do not receive treatment. In this context, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) play an essential role in providing services to unreachable populations in the community. Hence, this article aims to assess training needs and knowledge on the promotion, prevention and curative aspects of mental health to develop a community-based mental health intervention model for nongovernmental organisation (NGO) workers.</p> Methods <p>This study followed a qualitative method; the sample included 4 focus group discussions (FGDs; n = 4) conducted in the Haveri district of North Karnataka to assess the knowledge of NGO workers on the promotion, prevention and curative aspects of mental health. A total of 40 respondents participated in 4 FGDs, with group sizes ranging between 5 and 12 respondents in each group, and homogeneity was observed regarding occupation and location. Qualitative data were coded via the thematic analysis method employing ATLAS.ti software.</p> Results <p>Seven global themes emerged from the FGDs. (i) promotion of mental health activities, (ii) prevention of mental disorders, (iii) knowledge of identification of mental disorders and aetiology, (iv) knowledge of mental health services, (v) support of family and community, (vi) content of the training program, and (vii) methodology of the program.</p> Conclusion <p>Community-based mental health interventions are crucial for improving mental health outcomes because they focus on the prevention and promotion of mental health through early detection, treatment, and awareness.</p> <p><i>Trial registration</i> CTRI/2025/03/083349 [Registered on: 25/03/2025] Prospectively.</p>