SC Directs States to Ensure Student Mental Health Guidelines
The Supreme Court of India has taken a crucial step to address the rising mental health crisis among students by directing all states and Union Territories to report on the implementation of guidelines aimed at preventing suicides in educational institutions. This directive comes amid widespread concerns over student well-being and the alarming rates of suicides in schools and colleges.
In a recent ruling, the apex court emphasized the need for a unified framework that mandates mental health policies across all educational institutions. The court has given states and UTs eight weeks to submit their compliance reports, detailing how they plan to enforce these guidelines.
The guidelines, issued by the Supreme Court in July 2023, require educational institutions to adopt a mental health policy based on existing initiatives such as the 'Ummeed' draft guidelines and the 'Manodarpan' initiative. These policies are expected to be reviewed annually and made publicly available to ensure transparency and accountability.
During the court hearing, it was highlighted that there exists a legislative and regulatory vacuum in India regarding student suicide prevention. The Supreme Court's intervention is aimed at filling this gap and creating a safer environment for students. The court's 15 guidelines are binding until appropriate legislation is put in place.
The Ministry of Education has already initiated steps to address mental health issues, introducing the 'Ummeed' guidelines that focus on understanding and managing student emotions. The 'Manodarpan' initiative, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to promote mental well-being among students and is a step towards a more structured approach to mental health in schools.
As the court prepares for further hearings in January 2026, the focus remains on ensuring that educational institutions are equipped with the necessary resources and policies to support students. The Supreme Court's proactive stance reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in education and the urgent need for action to prevent tragedies.
This initiative underlines the responsibility of both the government and educational institutions in safeguarding the mental health of students, aiming to create a supportive environment that fosters learning and personal growth.
