UGC’s new policy: Prioritizing students’ mental health

January 27, 2026

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the regulatory body for higher education in India. The UGC has announced a new policy that aims to make it the responsibility of educational institutions not only to foster the academic development of students and young people but also to monitor and properly address their mental health. Statistics show that 10.6 percent of people in our country suffer from mental health problems. 7.3 percent of young people aged 18 to 29 are affected by serious mental health issues.

In this country, where a large proportion of the population consists of young students, 7.6 percent of all suicides each year are committed by students. The new policy mandates that every higher education institution establish mental health and wellness centers. These centers will be staffed by professional mental health specialists. One faculty mentor will be appointed for every 500 students. To monitor students’ mental health, the policy requires the appointment of one senior teacher for every 500 students and one student support assistant for every 100 students. A helpline number will also be available to provide students with 24/7 support. The UGC has also asked each institution to develop an action plan to prevent suicides.

Students showing signs of depression or suffering from mental health issues should receive immediate and effective help. The policy suggests training institution staff, teachers, and students to recognize warning signs and take necessary steps promptly. All higher education institutions have been asked to provide practical suggestions for implementing this policy. The Supreme Court has also called for a unified policy on this matter. Now, let’s consider the reality. Educational institutions already lack sufficient teachers. They are relying on temporary staff. Now, several new wings need to be established: One for digital education, another to implement the new policy of integrating arts and science education, and now an order to provide almost clinical-level mental healthcare.

But where will the budget for all this come from? Recently, it has been observed that the UGC (University Grants Commission) is reducing its contribution and asking states to increase theirs. How can such ambitious programs be launched without securing the necessary funds? While the decision to prioritize mental health care is certainly welcome, this welfare initiative can only be successful if substantial financial resources are allocated to it