In a pioneering step towards prioritizing students’ mental well-being, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has introduced a unique initiative called ‘Campus Mothers’. The program aims to provide emotional support to students grappling with academic stress and personal challenges, reinforcing the importance of empathy and human connection in a competitive academic environment.
With increasing reports of mental health issues among students in premier institutions, IIT Kharagpur has taken a proactive approach to address emotional distress on campus. Under this initiative, women faculty members and staff volunteers will act as surrogate mothers—Campus Mothers—to offer a comforting presence, a listening ear, and timely emotional support to students in need.
The institute has trained a group of these volunteers in basic psychological support and empathetic communication to ensure they are well-equipped to handle the emotional needs of the student community. The program was launched in July 2025 and is being run by the Students’ Welfare Group in collaboration with the institute’s counseling cell.
Professor V.K. Tewari, Director of IIT Kharagpur, remarked, “In our pursuit of excellence, we must not forget the importance of compassion. Campus Mothers will play a pivotal role in creating a nurturing environment, especially for students who are far from home and may be struggling silently.”
Students can reach out to the Campus Mothers through dedicated helplines, scheduled meet-ups, or during informal events designed to promote openness and trust. This program complements the existing professional counseling services by adding a more personal, human touch.
According to campus sources, the initiative was conceptualized after several student feedback sessions revealed a growing sense of loneliness and academic pressure, particularly among first-year and postgraduate students. Many students reportedly feel hesitant to approach professional counselors due to stigma or lack of familiarity. The presence of a caring maternal figure on campus is expected to bridge this emotional gap.
India has seen a disturbing trend of rising stress levels in higher education, with several tragic incidents in IITs and other institutes highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support. With Campus Mothers, IIT Kharagpur hopes to set a precedent that other educational institutions can replicate.
Mental health experts have praised the initiative as a step in the right direction. Dr. Neha Sharma, a clinical psychologist based in Kolkata, noted, “This approach aligns with trauma-informed care principles. The presence of a non-judgmental adult figure who listens and reassures can be immensely therapeutic, especially for young adults facing pressure from multiple fronts.”
