To stem the growth of mental health issues, especially among the youth, because of peer pressure and the stress to perform well, the Telangana government has launched many campaigns and programmes. One such campaign is the ‘Mano Vignana Yatra’, launched under the guidance of IAS officer Jayesh Ranjan, who is currently serving as Principal Secretary to ITE&C, Government of Telangana.
In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, Mr. Ranjan talked about the purpose of the whole yatra.
MENTAL WELLNESS MOST IMPORTANT
The 30-day Mano Vignana Yatra ,that started on 16 November and will conclude on 16 December, was launched in collaboration with Super Foundation. During this period, mental health experts will conduct sessions in 30 rural districts of Telangana.
Giving details, Mr. Ranjan said, “There are two institutions Telangana Academy for skills and knowledge (TASK) and Telangana State Innovation Cell (TSIC) that come under my portfolio. Both these institutes work closely with young people, especially students. In the past few months, we have noticed that many youths are continuously struggling with mental wellness, which impacts their decisions. In such a situation, we cannot ignore this issue and continue to talk about technology, innovations, or skill development.”
So, in order to address this issue, the government decided to support the yatra initiative.
EVERYONE NEEDS SUPPORT
Mr. Ranjan further said that the goal of the yatra is to provide some sense of optimism and basic resources to the youth so that they can deal with these kinds of situations and grow strong. Before setting up the whole campaign, a team of experts researched to find out the issues that bother the youth, what are the assurances they are looking for, and who can provide them.
“Under the yatra, we mobilise the students in college campuses and other center points of the district. Our experts talk to them, listen to their problems and try to provide solutions. We are also providing a resource kit which guides to seek the people who can help them,” said Mr. Ranjan.
He added that no one is perfect, and all have to deal with their own problems and struggles, but there are people who can help to come out of mental wellness issues. “It may be your friend, family member, or any specialist.”
The yatra is already a success in districts like Adilabad and others, going by the huge numbers of students turning up for the sessions. In fact, many sessions had to be extended on popular demand. Going by the overwhelming response to this initiative, it seems that the main purpose of the yatra – to create a network and support group of peers who can help each other – is already proving to be a success.
