NCERT Recognition of State‑Level Wellbeing Initiatives
During World Mental Health Day, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) formally recognised the governments of Tripura and Uttarakhand for embedding children’s mental health and wellbeing into the regular curriculum of public schools. The acknowledgement forms part of a broader national effort to highlight best‑practice state programmes that treat emotional resilience as essential to learning.
Programme Details and Reach
In Tripura, the Saharsh programme and in Uttarakhand, the Anandam Pathyacharya initiative have been incorporated into the standard school timetable. Both programmes are delivered by government school teachers and provide structured wellbeing classes where children learn to identify emotions, build positive relationships and manage everyday challenges. Collectively, the two programmes reach approximately nine lakh students – four lakh in Tripura and five lakh in Uttarakhand.
Evidence from Randomised Controlled Trial
The Tripura Saharsh programme was evaluated through a large‑scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) conducted in partnership with researchers from Harvard University and the University of Michigan. The study reported statistically significant improvements in learning outcomes alongside a measurable reduction in student anxiety, underscoring the complementary nature of emotional wellbeing and academic performance.
Quotations from State Officials
Shri Partha Pratim Acharya, Officer on Special Duty, State Council of Educational Research and Training, Tripura, stated: “Alongside academic learning, children need opportunities to understand their emotions, build relationships and learn to navigate challenges. Through ‘Saharsh’, we are making space for children to build these skills as part of their everyday school experience.”
Dr. B. P. Mandoli, State Nodal Officer, Samagra Shiksha, Government of Uttarakhand, added: “‘Anandam’ gives children a dedicated time in the school day to pause, express themselves and learn without the pressure of exams or judgement.” He highlighted the role of Smt. Bandana Garbyal, Director of Academic Research and Training, Uttarakhand, in guiding teachers to create safe and supportive classroom environments.
Role of Labhya
Labhya, an Indian nonprofit, served as the knowledge partner for both state governments, providing technical support and learning inputs for the implementation of Saharsh and Anandam Pathyacharya. Labhya’s involvement aims to build a scalable model where every child can become a calm, focused learner.
Significance
The national recognition underscores the importance of state‑government leadership in advancing children’s wellbeing through public education and offers a replicable framework for other Indian states seeking to integrate mental health practices into school systems.