Supreme Court Task Force Visits 30 Colleges Across 10 States to Address Student Mental Health

The National Task Force (NTF) constituted by the Supreme Court of India to address student mental health and prevent suicides has visited 30 higher education institutions across 10 states since May 2025, according to officials. The visits are part of a broader effort to understand ground-level challenges faced by students.

The task force has also held 25 stakeholder consultations involving students, faculty, mental health professionals, and legal experts. These discussions covered a range of issues including mental health support systems in colleges, student suicides, gender-related concerns, caste discrimination, and challenges faced by students from Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Other Backward Classes (OBC) communities.

Special attention was given to the needs of students and faculty members with disabilities. The role of mental health organisations in providing support was also examined. Law students were included in consultations to explore legal aspects connected with student welfare and safety.

The Supreme Court formed the NTF in response to growing concerns over student suicides in higher education institutions across the country. The task force is responsible for identifying major reasons behind student suicides and reviewing existing laws, policies, and institutional systems related to student safety and support.

Based on its findings, the task force will suggest reforms aimed at improving accountability, strengthening preventive measures, and creating a more supportive environment in educational institutions. Its recommendations will focus on reducing gaps in the current system and ensuring equal opportunities and support for students from all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalised communities.

The field visits and consultations are designed to gather first-hand information from different regions and types of institutions. This ground-level data is expected to help the panel develop practical and context-sensitive recommendations. The task force is expected to submit its report in due course.

Student mental health has emerged as a critical issue in Indian higher education, with several institutions facing scrutiny over their handling of student distress. The Supreme Court's proactive step through this task force aims to create systemic changes that can prevent suicides and promote well-being.

The NTF comprises experts from diverse fields including psychiatry, psychology, education policy, and law. Their multidisciplinary approach allows for a comprehensive examination of factors contributing to student distress. The panel is also consulting with university administrators to understand administrative challenges in implementing mental health programmes.

The task force's work is seen as a significant move towards building safer and more inclusive campuses. By directly engaging with stakeholders, the panel aims to ensure that its recommendations are rooted in the realities of student life.