In a significant move, the National Defence University (RRU) in Gandhinagar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association (CGWWA) of the North-West region. This partnership aims to establish a structured and sustainable mental and behavioral health support system for ICG personnel and CGWWA members in the North-West region. The initiative, managed by RRU’s School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI), focuses on enhancing psychological resilience, reducing stigma associated with mental health, and integrating emotional well-being into the operational readiness and family welfare framework of the Indian Coast Guard.
Under the guidance of Dr Jasbir Thadhani, the acting Dean of RRU, and Dr Nureen Chaudhary, the Director of SBSFI, trained professionals from RRU will conduct regular on-site sessions to meet these aims. This collaboration highlights the need for active engagement in addressing the serious mental health requirements of individuals serving the nation and their families, ensuring comprehensive support for their well-being.
The agreement was formally signed by Dr Jasbir Kaur Thadhani, acting Dean of the university, and Mrs Archana Shashi Kumar, President of CGWWA North-West, representing both the Indian Coast Guard and CGWWA. The partnership is expected to pave the way for joint research initiatives, training programmes, and welfare activities that will benefit both the academic community at RRU and the personnel of the Indian Coast Guard and their families.
Dr Thadhani emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, “The experts from our university will assist the Indian Coast Guard in providing all necessary support for their mental health.” She elaborated on past successful initiatives where SBSFI provided extensive support and planning activities to improve the well-being of ICG officers and their families. This MOU formalises and expands these ongoing efforts, ensuring a structural approach to enhance the mental and overall wellness of those serving in the Indian Coast Guard. It is anticipated that this agreement will promote a robust bond between practical applications in employee welfare and academic research.
Following the signing ceremony, in-depth and constructive discussions took place between RRU officials and representatives from ICG and CGWWA. These discussions focused on future plans, outlining a clear roadmap for effective implementation of the joint initiatives and exploring further opportunities for mutual development and cooperation. It was noted that RRU is committed to providing continuous support to meet the evolving needs of ICG and CGWWA.
Mrs Archana Shashi Kumar expressed enthusiasm for future activities in collaboration with SBSFI, highlighting the expected benefits for officers and their family members through these cooperative efforts.
The agreement between RRU, ICG, and CGWWA is designed to achieve several key objectives. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to the welfare of those dedicated to national security and maritime safety, stemming from detailed discussions between officials from SBSFI and members of the university, as well as CGWWA, to understand their challenges and expectations.
Both parties engaged in comprehensive discussions that led to a decision to provide extensive support through the partnership with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association (CGWWA). After the signing, attendees were given a detailed tour of RRU’s state-of-the-art facilities. This guided visit included the School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI), which focuses on psychological aspects of security and investigation; the School of Physical Education and Sports (SPES), which highlights the significance of physical fitness and sports in defence and security; and the Atal Incubation Centre (AIC), a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. These tours showcased the university’s diverse educational opportunities and its robust research capabilities, reinforcing its role as a leading institution in national security and related fields.
SBSFI students at RRU also had the opportunity to interact with Deputy Commandant Amrita Kaur and Medical Officer Dr Umang G, gaining insights into the institutional management and strategies for addressing mental health challenges.