JAMMU: Under the visionary leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu. Anandam: The Center for Happiness at IIM Jammu proudly took part in the 1st National Well-Being Conclave, hosted at IIT Hyderabad in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Government of India, on the 9th and 10th of November 2024.
The event was inaugurated by several prominent dignitaries, including Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India, who attended in person, and Shri V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor, who joined virtually. Other distinguished guests included Ms. Rina Sonowal Kouli, Joint Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India; Dr. Jitendra Nagpal, Senior Psychiatrist and Program Director; and Prof. B.S. Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad.
Representing IIM Jammu, Dr. Mamta Tripathi, Chairperson, Anandam: The Center for Happiness, IIM Jammu and Dr. Eshika Aggarwal, Co-Chairperson, Anandam: The Center for Happiness, IIM Jammuattended the event along with nominated students Ms. Annu Sharma (MBA 08) and Mr. Abhishek Singh Dube (MBA 09).
Hon’ble Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of India, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, and Joint Secretary, Ms. Rina Sonowal Kouli, visited the Anandam stall and expressed appreciation for the impactful initiatives Anandam is undertaking, providing valuable input on further enhancements.
Anandam: The Center for Happiness at IIM Jammu also participated in the exhibitions dedicated to mental health and wellbeing resources, sharing its initiatives designed to support the overall well-being of students, faculty, and staff. These initiatives include a Happiness course integrated into the curriculum, year-round yoga and meditation sessions, counseling services, talks and webinars on happiness and well-being, Art of Living’s YES+ and Happiness courses, and unique events like “Parichay,” which fosters student-faculty connections, and “Gratitude,” which encourages social bonding and appreciation. The conclave marked a significant step in aligning Indian higher educational institutions with a shared vision of holistic growth and mental well-being for faculty and students.
Renowned institutions joined forces to showcase innovative approaches followed by them to enhance physical and mental well-being of faculty and students. The event saw over 500 participants from 100 centrally funded institutions gather to discuss wellbeing practices.
The conclave featured discussions on mental health initiatives and resilience strategies tailored for campus settings, along with showcases of successful mental health and wellbeing programs across various higher education institutions (HEIs). Best Practice Sharing sessions highlighted effective strategies, while exhibitions were dedicated to mental health and wellbeing resources. Additionally, interactive activities were designed to engage attendees and encourage positive mental health practices.
This conclave marked a significant milestone in prioritizing student and faculty well-being and fostering holistic growth. It highlighted the critical need for mental health programs in HEIs and emphasized various initiatives aimed at reducing stigma around mental health and fostering a sense of belonging. The event also launched a compendium of "Best Practices on Well-being."
