Inaugurating the helpline "Bharosa" through a videoconference, Pokhriyal lauded the initiative as it aims atproviding mental and psychological assistance to the studentsof the institute.
Addressing the mental health concern of students is ofgreat importance and the helpline, 08046801010, introduced bythe university, is a good initiative, he said.
The minister urged other central and stateuniversities and institutions of higher education across thecountry to emulate the initiative that will provide cognitiveemotional rehabilitation services to students.
Central University of Odisha vice chancellor Prof IRamabrahmam highlighted the features of the helpline thatseeks to address the problems of distressed students in thewake of the COVID-19 outbreak.
He said the "Bharosa" can address concern of anystudent of any university in Odisha, and over 400 calls havebeen received in the pilot phase of the project.
State Higher Education Minister Arun Kumar Sahooappreciated the efforts of the university and hoped that itwill help students during the crisis period.
Dr Meena Hariharan, President, Association of HealthPsychologists, the collaborating agency with the centraluniversity for the initiative, congratulated the authoritiesof the institute. SKNBDC BDC