IIT Kharagpur Prioritises Student Mental Health with Policy Changes and Academic Flexibility

In response to recent student suicides, IIT Kharagpur is considering easing academic regulations and introducing support measures to alleviate stress and promote student well-being.

New Measures Aim to Prioritise Student Mental Health at IIT KGP

IIT Kharagpur Updates: In response to a series of student suicides, IIT Kharagpur is reviewing its academic framework to reduce stress and enhance student well-being. One of the key measures under consideration is a reform of the attendance policy, aimed at creating a more balanced and supportive academic environment. The recent tragedies have prompted the institute to reassess policies that may be contributing to student distress.

New Measures Aim to Prioritise Student Mental Health

Following a spate of student suicides on campus, the IIT Kharagpur administration has taken a considered step towards easing academic pressures. Among the key changes is a planned reform of the attendance policy, aimed at striking a healthier balance between academic rigour and student well-being, reports Dipawali Mitra.

Amit Patra, Director of IIT Kharagpur, said: "Discussions are on regarding reforms in the attendance policy to ease academic load. But, it will take time, as the final decision will be approved at the Senate. Regarding cases of stress due to de-registration, we are looking into the matter separately.

As per media reports, a senior official of IIT Kharagpur said: "We're working to reform attendance policy of the institute, so that academic life of students becomes a bit easier. This is a measured step in striking a balance between well-being of students and academics."

Suicide Cases at IIT Kharagpur

Md Asif Qamar, a third-year civil engineering student, was found dead in his hostel room on Sunday, just two weeks after the death of fourth-year student Aniket Walkar. Qamar's death marks the third student suicide this semester, the fourth in less than a year, and the ninth in five years at the premier institute. In the days following Walkar’s death, sources indicate that faculty members were informally advised not to de-register students from courses solely due to attendance shortages.

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