In recent tragic incidents, several young individuals associated with prestigious academic institutions have lost their lives under distressing circumstances, prompting concerns about mental health support in educational environments.

In one such incident, a 23-year-old student from IIT Delhi, originally from Nashik, Maharashtra, was discovered deceased in their hostel room in what appears to be a case of suicide. The student was pursuing an M.Tech program at the institution, and further details are currently awaited.

Similarly, on February 13, an eighteen-year-old student, who was preparing for the IIT-JEE exam at a coaching center in Kota, Rajasthan, was found deceased in their PG accommodation. Tragically, this follows another incident in Kota where an 18-year-old girl, also preparing for the JEE exam, ended her life.

Adding to the concern, in December 2023, a 34-year-old research scholar at IIT Kanpur, originally from Cuttack, Odisha, was found dead in her hostel room. She was conducting postdoctoral research in the Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering at IIT Kanpur. Reports indicate that she took her own life by hanging herself from the ceiling fan.

These incidents highlight the critical need for enhanced mental health support and awareness within academic communities, urging institutions to prioritize the well-being of their students and researchers.

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