India’s higher education institutions came together at IIT Bombay on November 22–23, 2025, for the 2nd National Well-Being Conclave.
They reaffirmed their commitment to student mental health and resilience.
Adolescents and youth form the backbone of India’s demographic dividend. However, their resilience is increasingly tested by academic pressures, social isolation, and digital influences. Consequently, the National Education Policy 2020, the National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2021, and subsequent UGC guidelines emphasised the urgent need for counselling services, inclusive campuses, and accountability mechanisms.
The two-day conclave began with an inaugural session featuring dignitaries such as Dr Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay; and Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu. Moreover, a key highlight was the release of the Compendium of Emerging Best Practices of Well-Being Across the Country 2.0, which documented replicable models nationwide.
Day 1 included a wellness exhibition, symposiums, and panel discussions on counselling systems, peer mentorship, digital well-being tools, and institutional roles. Experts stressed proactive mechanisms, early support systems, and inter-institutional partnerships. In addition, Day 2 began with a campus walkathon linking physical and mental health, followed by workshops on life skills, peer support, counselling competencies, and digital well-being. Students also showcased innovative initiatives through presentations.
Finally, the conclave concluded with a valedictory ceremony chaired by Ms Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Department of Higher Education. Organisers announced final recommendations and the Inter-University Action Plan for 2025–26, paving the way for coordinated well-being initiatives across HEIs.
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