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Army Chief: Schools Need War Mindset for Kids' Mental Health
17 Oct
Summary
- Educators urged to adopt a 'win-only' mindset for student psychological well-being.
- Early mental health intervention in schools is vital against digital distractions.
- Project SAATHI trains school counselors to address rising student distress.
General VP Malik, former Chief of Army Staff, has called upon educators to adopt a decisive, frontline approach to safeguarding student mental health. He likened mental healthcare to military warfare, emphasizing the necessity of an unyielding commitment to winning against psychological distress.
Gen Malik highlighted that mental health interventions must commence early in schools. He pointed out the stiff competition from digital distractions and smartphone exposure, stating that "Losing is just not in our thoughts." He urged teachers to sustain wellness modules through continuous monitoring and commitment over several years.
This address supports Project SAATHI, launched in January 2025 following a rise in student suicides. The project involves clinicians from GMCH and PGIMER training 87 school counselors. Initiatives by Krishnamacharya Ashtanga Viniyoga, Isha Foundation, and Brahma Kumaris have reached over 3,000 students.
Further teacher training in yoga is underway, with online sessions planned. The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) will evaluate the project's impact in four schools, potentially leading to its expansion across Chandigarh.
