A Supreme Court-appointed task force has visited 30 higher education institutions (HEIs) across 10 states since May 2025 to study student mental health, according to an official statement. The initiative, led by former Supreme Court judge Justice B. V. Nagarathna, aims to evaluate existing support systems and recommend reforms to address rising mental health concerns among students.
Scope of the Study
The task force, constituted in April 2025, has conducted visits to universities, colleges, and other HEIs in states including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and others. The visits involve interactions with students, faculty, and administrators to understand the current mental health infrastructure, counseling services, and stress factors. The team is also examining the implementation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines on student mental health.
According to the Supreme Court order, the task force was formed in response to a public interest litigation highlighting the increasing number of student suicides and mental health crises on campuses. The court had noted that a proactive approach is needed to create a supportive environment for students.
Key Findings and Recommendations
While the task force has not yet released a formal report, preliminary observations indicate that many institutions lack adequate counseling facilities, trained professionals, and awareness programs. Some colleges have no dedicated mental health cell, while others have limited access to psychological support. The task force is expected to submit its recommendations to the Supreme Court by August 2025.
Justice Nagarathna emphasized the need for a holistic approach, stating, "Student mental health cannot be addressed in isolation; it requires a cultural shift in how educational institutions perceive well-being. We are looking at systemic changes, including mandatory mental health training for faculty and peer support networks."
Impact on Policy
The task force's work is likely to influence future UGC guidelines and state-level policies on student welfare. The Supreme Court has directed all HEIs to cooperate with the task force and provide necessary data. The court is also considering making mental health audits mandatory for all universities and colleges.
Data from the National Crime Records Bureau shows that over 10,000 students died by suicide in India in 2022, highlighting the urgency of the issue. The task force aims to reduce such incidents by promoting early intervention and destigmatizing mental health discussions.
Next Steps
The task force will continue its visits in the coming months and may expand its scope to include more institutions and regions. A final report with actionable recommendations is expected to be submitted to the Supreme Court, which will then consider issuing binding directions to all educational institutions across the country.
