Kolkata, September 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
IIT Kharagpur has stepped up efforts to address mental health concerns among students and prevent suicides, introducing a series of measures focused on early identification of distress, peer support and training of staff and students.
At least three students at the institute have died by suicide on campus in 2026, including a 19-year-old second-year mechanical engineering student from Rajasthan who died on August 13. Five student suicides were reported at the campus in 2025.
The measures come amid growing concern over student suicides at educational institutions. The Supreme Court has also expressed concern over such deaths and called for appropriate remedial measures.
As part of its latest initiative, the institute is focusing on training members of the campus community to recognise signs of emotional distress and respond appropriately.
On World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, IIT Kharagpur launched SAHACHAR, an in-house wellness buddy programme aimed at strengthening peer support. The initiative was introduced as part of activities based on the 2026 theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, and the call to action, “Start the Conversation”.
The institute’s Counselling Centre conducted a dedicated training module for security guards, supervisors and hall managers to help them identify and respond to crisis situations.
Student mentors subsequently received training under the Student Mentorship Programme, following which SAHACHAR was formally launched. A Yellow Ribbon Drive was also organised across the campus, with students placing ribbons of hope at various locations.
The day concluded with students participating in a collective candlelight pledge, with the initiative encouraging openness, conversation and support while seeking to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health concerns.
A mental health expert associated with the institute said students face significant pressure, particularly at highly competitive institutions where academic performance can contribute to stress.
The expert emphasised that not all cases of suicide are necessarily linked to academics, with personal relationships and other forms of emotional distress also potentially playing a role.
The institute is therefore seeking to involve the wider campus community in identifying warning signs. Experts stressed that while student wellness buddies can play an important role, they need to be supported by staff who are adequately trained and sensitive to mental health concerns.
The broader approach seeks to ensure that students experiencing distress are identified earlier and encouraged to seek support rather than facing their problems in isolation.
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