Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) announced a significant partnership with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association (CGWWA), North Western Region, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at RRU's Gandhinagar campus. This landmark agreement is set to establish a structured and sustained mental and behavioural health support system for ICG personnel and CGWWA members in the Northwestern Region.

The initiative, spearheaded by RRU's School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI), aims to enhance psychological resilience, reduce the stigma associated with mental health, and embed emotional well-being within the operational preparedness and family welfare framework of the Indian Coast Guard. Under the guidance of Dr Jasbir Thadhani, University Dean (I/C), and Dr Noorin Chaudhary, Acting Director of SBSFI, trained professionals from RRU will conduct regular on-site sessions to achieve these objectives. This collaboration underscores a proactive approach to addressing the critical mental health needs of those serving the nation and their families, ensuring comprehensive support for their well-being.

The MoU was formally signed by Dr Jasbirkaur Thadhani, University Dean (I/C), representing Rashtriya Raksha University, and Mrs Archana Sashi Kumar, President, CGWWA North West, on behalf of both the Indian Coast Guard and CGWWA. This 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.

This collaboration aims to leverage RRU's expertise to provide comprehensive support services to the Indian Coast Guard. Dr Thadhani, University Dean (I/C), emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating, "This will help experts of the university to provide all such support required by the Indian Coast Guard for their fresh and healthy mind." She further elaborated on past successful initiatives, highlighting how the School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI) within RRU has previously offered extensive support and organised activities for the betterment of ICG officials and their families. This MoU formalises and expands upon these existing efforts, ensuring a structured approach to enhancing the mental and overall well-being of those serving in the Indian Coast Guard. The agreement is expected to foster a stronger bond between academic research and practical application in the field of personnel welfare.

The signing ceremony was followed by an in-depth and constructive discussion between university officials and representatives from the ICG and CGWWA. Deliberations focussed on a comprehensive future plan of action, outlining a clear roadmap for effective implementation of joint initiatives and exploring further prospects for mutual growth and collaboration. RRU is committed to providing ongoing support to meet the evolving requirements of the ICG and CGWWA, as articulated during the discussions.

Mrs. Archana Sashi Kumar, President, CGWWA North Western Command, expressed her enthusiasm for future activities in association with the SBSFI, RRU. She highlighted the anticipated benefits for officials and their family members through these collaborative endeavours.

The Memorandum of Understanding between RRU, ICG, and CGWWA, North Western Region, is designed to achieve several key objectives:

• Mental Health and Well-being Support: Provide specialised psychological and counselling services to ICG personnel and their families, addressing stress, trauma, and other mental health challenges inherent in their demanding roles.
• Skill Development and Training: Offer training programmes and workshops focussed on resilience, stress management, and personal development, tailored to the unique needs of Coast Guard personnel.
• Family Welfare Initiatives: Organise activities and support systems for the families of ICG personnel, recognising their crucial role in the overall well-being of service members.
• Research and Development: Collaborate on research projects aimed at understanding and improving the welfare and wellness of uniformed personnel, contributing to evidence-based practices.
• Expert Consultation: Provide expert consultation from RRU's various schools and departments, including the School of SBSFI, to address specific needs and challenges faced by the ICG.

This partnership underscores a shared commitment to the welfare of those who dedicate their lives to national security and maritime safety, stemming from detailed discussions between officials from the School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI) and the University Dean with members of the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association (CGWWA) to understand their challenges and expectations from the University. Both parties engaged in comprehensive discussions, leading to a decision to provide comprehensive support through a partnership with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association (CGWWA).

Following the signing, attendees were given a comprehensive tour of several of RRU's state-of-the-art facilities. The guided visit included the School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI), which focusses on the psychological and investigative aspects of security; the School of Physical Education and Sports (SPES), highlighting the importance 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 academic offerings and its robust research capabilities, emphasising its role as a leading institution in national security and allied fields.

Students from SBSFI, RRU engaged with Deputy Commandant Amrita Kaur and Medical Officer Dr. Umang G. to gain insight into the institution's operations and its strategies for addressing mental health challenges.

 

(Release ID: 2156404)