Aligned with UMMEED Framework, MANODARPAN Initiative & National Suicide Prevention Strategy, Government of India

The Institute is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes mental well-being, emotional resilience, and psychological safety of all students, faculty, and staff. This policy establishes a structured mechanism for mental health promotion, early identification of distress, counselling support, and suicide prevention, in line with national initiatives and legal frameworks.

Promote positive mental health and emotional wellbeing Enable early identification and timely intervention Prevent suicide, self-harm, and mental health crises Build institutional capacity through training and awareness Ensure confidential, ethical, and accessible support services

This policy is guided by: UMMEED Framework (Understand – Motivate – Manage – Empathise – Empower – Develop) MANODARPAN Initiative (Ministry of Education, GoI) National Suicide Prevention Strategy (2021)Mental Healthcare Act, 2017

This policy applies to: All students (UG/PG/PhD/trainees) Teaching, non-teaching, and contractual staff Hostels, laboratories, classrooms, and campus facilities

Confidentiality and dignity Non-discrimination and inclusivity Accessibility and affordability Empathy and compassion Rights-based and evidence-informed approach

1) Awareness & Sensitisation Mental health awareness programmes each semester Orientation sessions for new students and staff Stress management, resilience, and life-skills workshops Anti-stigma and help-seeking campaigns
2) Capacity Building (UMMEED-Based) Training of faculty and staff as first-level responders Peer mentors / student wellbeing ambassadors Basic psychological first aid training

Appointment of a qualified counsellor/psychologist (in-house or empanelled) Dedicated counselling space ensuring privacy Voluntary and free access to counselling services Referral linkages with:District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) Tele-MANAS / KIRAN helpline Government or recognised mental health facilities

1) Early Identification Identification of warning signs (academic decline, withdrawal, behavioural changes) Self-referral, peer referral, and faculty referral mechanisms
2) Crisis Response Protocol Immediate psychological first aid Emergency medical referral when required Sensitive communication with family/guardian (as appropriate) Post-crisis follow-up and academic/workplace support

The Institute shall constitute a Mental Health & Well-Being Committee, comprising: Head of Institute / Nominee (Chairperson)
Counsellor / Psychologist Faculty representatives Student representative(s) Hostel / administrative representative
Functions:
Policy implementation and review Oversight of support mechanisms Ensuring confidentiality and ethical practice

Institute Administration Provide resources and infrastructure Ensure policy compliance and review Faculty & Staff Identify early warning signs
Provide empathetic support and referrals Maintain a supportive academic environment Students Practice responsible help-seeking Support peers and reduce stigma

All mental health information shall remain strictly confidential Records maintained securely No academic or administrative penalty for seeking mental health support

Concerns related to mental health services may be reported to the Mental Health Committee
Timely, sensitive, and confidential resolution ensured

Annual review of the policy Feedback from students and staff Continuous improvement based on institutional needs

Improved mental wellbeing and resilience Increased help-seeking behaviour Reduced stigma and crisis situations Safer and healthier campus environment