National Task Force on Student Mental Health

Current Context: The Supreme Court of India established a National Task Force (NTF) to address the rise in student suicides in higher educational institutions, following recent incidents at IIT Delhi.

Key Details:

• Chairperson: Justice S. Ravindra Bhat (former SC judge).

Mandate:

• Identify causes of student suicides.
• Analyze mental health policies.
• Recommend solutions for better safeguards.
• Conduct surprise inspections in institutions.

Key Issues:

• Over 13,000 student suicides in recent years, linked to academic pressure, harassment, and caste discrimination.
• Focus on addressing caste-based discrimination and systemic challenges.

Legal and Institutional Reforms:

• Police directed to register FIRs in suspected foul play.
• Educational institutions urged to adopt empathetic approaches to reduce academic pressure.

Funding and Reporting:

• Initial Funding: Rs 20 lakh by the Centre.
• Timeline: Interim report in 4 months, final report in 8 months.