Student Suicides: NTF conducts field visits across 30 HEIs in 10 states with an inclusive approach

Vaishnavi Shukla | June 30, 2026 | 04:57 PM IST | 1 min read

The task force conducted 25 stakeholder consultations, ensuring fair and equal participation on themes such as caste discrimination, mental health and suicides, gender equality in HEIs, among others

NTF’s consultation was based on several themes. (Representational Image: Freepik)

The National Task Force (NTF) on mental health and prevention of student suicides has conducted field visits in 30 higher education institutions (HEIs) across 10 states since May 2025 last year. The task force has also conducted 25 stakeholder consultations, ensuring an interdisciplinary and equal approach.

The NTF on mental health was set up by the Supreme Court last year following the suicides of two Dalit students at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. After submitting its interim report last year, the SC issued a series of directions in 2026 based on its recommendations.

In an order dated May 27, 2026, the apex court allowed NTF time till October 31, 2026 to submit its final report. In compliance with the SC order dated February 6, 2026, former chief statistician of India, T C A Anant was appointed as a technical consultant to the task force to conduct a comprehensive and scientific analysis of survey data.

Also read Student Suicides: NTF interim report flags impact of NEET, JEE-type exams on mental health

NTF’s consultation based on several themes

According to the official PIB press release, since January 2026, NTF has completed additional consultations on the following themes:

  • Students and faculty with disabilities
  • Caste discrimination in higher education
  • Gender, mental health and suicides
  • Students from ST and OBC communities
  • Mental health and decriminalization of suicide
  • Gender question in student suicides
  • Consultations with mental health NGOs
  • Consultation with law students

The task force's main responsibilities have three key components: identification of the causes that lead to student suicides and an analysis of relevant laws, policies, and institutional frameworks. Lastly, proposing reforms to strengthen enforcement and accountability, fix gaps in current systems, create a more inclusive campus, and ensure equal opportunities for all students, especially marginalised groups.

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